R Ashwin retires from international cricket
Ravichandran Ashwin, India’s premier off-spinner, has announced his retirement from international cricket with immediate effect. The 38-year-old made this unexpected declaration during a press conference following the drawn third Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane. Ashwin, accompanied by Indian captain Rohit Sharma, expressed his gratitude towards his teammates, coaches, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for their unwavering support throughout his illustrious career.
Debuting in 2010, Ashwin rapidly ascended to become one of the world’s leading spinners. He retires with 537 Test wickets from 106 matches, making him India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Tests, only behind Anil Kumble’s 619. Across all formats, he amassed a total of 765 wickets, underscoring his versatility and endurance in the international arena.
Beyond his bowling prowess, Ashwin contributed significantly with the bat, scoring six Test centuries and proving himself as a reliable all-rounder. His strategic acumen and ability to adapt to various conditions made him a formidable opponent, particularly on subcontinental pitches where he often dominated visiting teams.
Ashwin’s decision to retire comes amidst the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia. He featured in the second Test in Adelaide but was omitted from the first and third Tests. Despite feeling that he still has “a bit of punch left” in him as a cricketer, Ashwin expressed a desire to continue playing at the club level, indicating his intention to step away from the international stage.
Tributes have poured in from teammates and opponents alike, acknowledging Ashwin’s impact on the game. Former captain Virat Kohli shared an emotional message, reflecting on their 14 years of playing together and the memories they’ve created. Australian spinner Nathan Lyon, whom Ashwin spoke with before the announcement, also admired his counterpart’s achievements.
As Ashwin bids farewell to international cricket, his legacy as one of India’s greatest spinners remains firmly intact. His contributions have not only led India to numerous victories but have also inspired a generation of cricketers to pursue excellence in the sport.
