Indian off-spinner and Delhi Capitals player Ravichandran Ashwin has announced that he is withdrawing from the ongoing 14th edition of the Indian Premier League, saying that he wishes to support his family members, who are currently putting up a fight against Covid-19.

Ashwin added that he hoped to return to the side if things went in the right direction. A family member of the off-spinner apparently tested positive for the coronavirus recently. Following Delhi Capitals' game against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Sunday night, Ashwin put out the following tweet. "I would be taking a break from this years IPL from tomorrow. My family and extended family are putting up a fight against #COVID19 and I want to support them during these tough times. I expect to return to play if things go in the right direction. Thank you @DelhiCapitals," his tweet read.

While several overseas cricketers pulled themselves out of the tournament owing to the pandemic, Ashwin is the first Indian player to opt out of the league. Expressing their support, Delhi Capitals' official social media handle posted a tweet that read, "Extending our full support to you in these difficult times, @ashwinravi99. Sending you and your family all the strength and prayers from all of us at Delhi Capitals."

I would be taking a break from this years IPL from tomorrow. My family and extended family are putting up a fight against #COVID19 and I want to support them during these tough times. I expect to return to play if things go in the right direction. Thank you @DelhiCapitals ????

— Stay home stay safe! Take your vaccine???? (@ashwinravi99) April 25, 2021