In a surprising turn of events, Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India’s most accomplished cricketers, announced his retirement from international cricket on December 18, 2024. The announcement came immediately after the third Test against Australia at the Gabba concluded in a draw. Ashwin, aged 38, shared his decision during a press conference alongside Indian captain Rohit Sharma, expressing a desire to continue playing at the club level despite feeling he still had more to offer on the international stage.
Ashwin’s career statistics are a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport. In Test cricket, he amassed 537 wickets in 106 matches, making him India’s second-highest wicket-taker in the format, only behind Anil Kumble. His prowess wasn’t limited to bowling; he also contributed significantly with the bat, scoring six Test centuries and accumulating over 3,500 runs. In One Day Internationals (ODIs), Ashwin played 116 matches, taking 156 wickets, and in T20 Internationals, he secured 72 wickets in 65 appearances.
Throughout his 14-year international career, Ashwin was renowned for his strategic acumen and ability to adapt to various conditions, making him a formidable opponent on any pitch. His contributions were pivotal in numerous Indian victories, particularly in Test matches where his spin bowling often dismantled opposing batting line-ups. Notably, he was the fastest bowler to reach 300 Test wickets in terms of the number of innings and has won eleven Man of the Series awards in Tests, the most for any cricketer alongside Muttiah Muralitharan.
The timing of Ashwin’s retirement has sparked discussions within the cricketing community. He was omitted from the series opener in Perth and faced challenges in the second Test in Adelaide, leading to speculation about his future in the national team. Despite these setbacks, his sudden departure has left fans and analysts reflecting on his substantial impact on the game.
Reactions to Ashwin’s retirement have been heartfelt and appreciative. Former Indian captain Virat Kohli, who shared a close bond with Ashwin, expressed his emotions on social media, reminiscing about their 14 years of playing together and lauding Ashwin’s contributions to the team. Head coach Gautam Gambhir also expressed pride in witnessing Ashwin’s growth, while former spinner Harbhajan Singh praised Ashwin’s ambition and achievements.
Ashwin’s departure marks the end of an era for Indian cricket. His strategic mindset, combined with his technical skills, set him apart as a player who could influence the game’s outcome with both ball and bat. His ability to innovate, such as developing the ‘carrom ball,’ showcased his commitment to evolving as a cricketer and his desire to stay ahead of the competition.
Beyond his on-field achievements, Ashwin was known for his sportsmanship and respect for the game. His interactions with fellow players, including opponents, were marked by professionalism and camaraderie. This was evident in his retirement announcement, where he thanked not only his teammates and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) but also the Australian cricket team for their fierce competition.
Looking ahead, Ashwin’s decision to continue playing at the club level indicates his enduring passion for cricket. Fans can look forward to witnessing his performances in domestic circuits, where his experience and skills will undoubtedly continue to inspire upcoming cricketers. Notably, he is expected to play for the Chennai Super Kings in the next edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2025.
In conclusion, Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement from international cricket is a significant moment in the sport’s history. His remarkable career, characterized by record-breaking performances and unwavering dedication, has left an indelible mark on Indian and global cricket. As he transitions to the next phase of his cricketing journey, the legacy he leaves behind will continue to inspire and influence the generations to come.
For those interested in hearing Ashwin’s retirement announcement firsthand, you can watch the video below:
Source Reuters