Ajinkya Rahane: The Amsterdam Anchor
Shortly after announcing his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket, Ajinkya Rahane confirmed he would be joining the Amsterdam Flames as a marquee player. The move came after a call from Australian legend and franchise co-owner Steve Waugh, who
was keen to bring Rahane’s vast experience to the new league. Known for his calm demeanor and technically sound batting, Rahane provides an immediate anchor for the Amsterdam side. For a player who has captained India and played nearly 200 matches for his country, the ETPL offers a fresh challenge in a different environment. His presence not only adds star power but also a respected leader who can guide younger European talents. After a successful career in the IPL and for India, Rahane’s move to the ETPL is seen as a chance for him to give back to the game on a global stage.
Ravichandran Ashwin: The Dublin Strategist
One of the sharpest minds in modern cricket will be plying his trade in Ireland. Ravichandran Ashwin, who retired from the IPL in 2025 and international cricket before that, has been named the captain of the Dublin Guardians. His signing is a major coup for the league and the franchise, which is co-owned by former India head coach Rahul Dravid. The reunion of Ashwin and Dravid, this time in a player-owner capacity, adds a compelling narrative to the tournament. Ashwin is more than just a world-class spinner; he is a master tactician whose insights will be invaluable to building a new team from scratch. His ability to out-think batters and control the flow of a T20 game makes him one of the most exciting signings of the inaugural season. Fans will be eager to see his bowling variations and leadership on display in European conditions.
Vijay Shankar: The All-Round Power
Joining Ashwin at the Dublin Guardians is all-rounder Vijay Shankar, completing a notable trio of Indian talent at the franchise. Shankar announced his retirement from Indian cricket in May 2026 at the age of 35, a decision made specifically to pursue opportunities in overseas T20 leagues. The ETPL will be his second such venture after a stint in the Lanka Premier League. Shankar provides the Dublin side with crucial balance as a powerful middle-order hitter and a handy medium-pacer. His versatility makes him a valuable asset in the fast-paced T20 format. For Shankar, this is an opportunity to showcase his all-round skills on a new platform, away from the immense pressure of the Indian domestic circuit and IPL. The move also reunites him with both Ashwin and Dravid, with whom he shares history from Chennai league cricket and the India A setup.
A New Path for Retired Stars?
The participation of these three well-known Indian players highlights a growing trend. Under current BCCI regulations, active Indian cricketers are not permitted to play in foreign T20 leagues. Retirement from all forms of Indian cricket is the only path to obtaining the necessary clearance. The decisions by Rahane, Ashwin, and Shankar to retire and immediately join the ETPL suggest a new career trajectory for players who may be past their international prime but still have much to offer. While the BCCI has discussed a potential 'cooling-off' period to discourage players from using retirement as a quick exit to foreign leagues, the current policy allows this transition. The ETPL, for its part, benefits immensely, as the inclusion of Indian stars is a huge draw for broadcast audiences back home, which is critical for a new league's success.
