IPL Trade: Ravichandran Ashwin joins Delhi Capitals

Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin on Friday joined Delhi Capitals IPL franchise, traded for left-armer Jagadeesha Suchith, who took senior player's place in Kings XI Punjab. PTI had earlier reported that Delhi Capitals offered KXIP Suchith and an additional sum of Rs 1.5 crore as part of exchange. Ashwin, 33, will get Rs 7.6 crore, his value from IPL 2018 auction.

"He's easily one of best and most experienced spinners around, with a tremendous record in India and IPL colours. re's doubt in my mind that Ashwin's presence will benefit our team tremendously, as we eye big prize IPL title," said Delhi Capitals co-owner Parth Jindal.

"Ashwin adds a lot of value to any team that he's a part of, and I'm sure it's going to be different when he joins Delhi Capitals," said Delhi Capitals Head Coach Ricky Ponting on Ashwin joining his team.

"It is secret that pitch on our home ground is on slower side, and is kwn to assist spinners. I believe, Ashwin, with his clever bowling, will have a tremendous impact when he bowls on it," he added.

Ashwin has played 68 Tests and 111 ODIs for India, in which he has taken 357 and 150 wickets respectively. 33-year-old spinner has been among top performers in IPL since making his debut in 2009, having snared 125 wickets from 139 games at an excellent ecomy rate of 6.79. He was an integral part of Chennai Super Kings side that won back-to-back titles in 2010 and 2011.

As captain, Ashwin was unable to change fortunes of KXIP, one of three original teams still to win an IPL. team failed to make it to playoffs in both seasons despite a few promising performances. Opener KL Rahul will w be among frontrunners to be named captain of franchise. IPL transfer window closes next week, on vember 14, and more anuncements of trade-offs are likely to be made before that.