New Delhi, July 2: Former Indian cricket team off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has announced that Rahul Dravid has entrusted him with complete control over cricketing decisions for the Dublin Guardians in the inaugural European T20 Premier League (ETPL). Ashwin revealed that the former head coach of India has consciously chosen to step back from on-field decision-making.
After the ETPL 2026 player draft on Thursday, Ashwin stated that the responsibility of team formation and strategy lies entirely with him as the franchise’s captain and mentor. The Dublin Guardians, co-owned by Dravid, appointed Ashwin to this dual role ahead of the league’s first season.
In a media interaction following the draft, Ashwin remarked, “I believe it is crucial for people to have the freedom to run the cricket team on the field. I don’t think we have faced many difficulties so far. Rahul has made it clear that he does not want to be heavily involved in cricketing decisions. I am at the center of this, and I will take on the responsibility of forming the teams.”
At 39, Ashwin acknowledged that leading a franchise in a new league presents a fresh challenge. However, both he and Dravid aspire to establish a strong foundation for the ETPL.
He added, “This is a new territory for all of us. We are excited about it and hope to bring about some changes in the long run. Whatever Rahul and I do in this tournament will leave a true mark.”
Ashwin also explained why he accepted the dual role of captain and mentor, stating that it reflects the direction he wants to take in his career as he transitions towards leadership and coaching roles.
The former star spinner expressed, “I feel I am at a stage in my career where I want to contribute more than just being a player. The opportunity in ETPL felt like a natural progression. Dravid was already familiar with the leadership role I have been playing in domestic cricket. He understands what I do for club cricket. Therefore, I believe he had complete confidence that I could handle this. It’s just a crossover into what I want to do next.”
Ashwin also mentioned that his return to competitive cricket in the ETPL will follow his knee surgery.
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PK
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