Ashwin to lead Dindigul Dragons; Karthik picked up by Karaikudi Kaalai

India’s ace Test spinner R Ashwin will be leading Dindigul Dragons in the third edition of the Tamil Nadu Premier League after he was retained by the franchise.

India’s ace Test spinner R Ashwin will be leading Dindigul Dragons in the third edition of the Tamil Nadu Premier League after he was retained by the franchise.

 The 2018 version of the tournament is scheduled to begin from July 11 in various venues across the southern state.

The franchise owners were very excited to have Ashwin back on board but he will only be available in the initial matches as he returns to the Indian squad for England red-ball tour.

It was an advantage to have Ravichandran Ashwin (retained by the team) at the player draft to select the best possible combination. Ashwin will be participating in the initial matches, after which he is expected to get busy with international duty," he said.

N Jagadeesan will lead Dindigul Dragons in once Ashwin leaves for the international duty.

While Dinesh Karthik was picked up by Karaikudi Kaalai which will be coached by former cricketer S Badrinath.

Karthik will not be available for the first half of the tournament as he will be in England with the Indian team for the limited-overs tour.

Murali Vijay, on the hand, will feature for Ruby Trichy Warriors and Tamil Nadu skipper Vijay Shankar has been picked up by Chennai Super Gillies.