Ashwin announces retirement

Brisbane, Dec 18:

Indian cricketing stalwart Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket following the third Test match against Australia in Brisbane on Wednesday. Ashwin, 38, revealed his decision during a joint press conference with skipper Rohit Sharma, leaving fans and the cricketing fraternity emotional yet appreciative of his illustrious career.

The Announcement
“This will be my last day as an India cricketer,” Ashwin said, marking the end of an era. True to his composed demeanor, he refrained from taking questions, leaving the stage after delivering the announcement. Skipper Rohit Sharma, present alongside him, added, “He was very, very sure of his decision. We should stand by what he wants.”

A Record-Breaking Career in Red-Ball Cricket
Ashwin’s contributions to Indian cricket are monumental. He retires as the second-highest wicket-taker for India in Tests, with 537 wickets in 106 matches, second only to Anil Kumble’s 619 scalps. Known for his wizardry with the ball, Ashwin’s ability to adapt and innovate against the toughest of opponents made him a cornerstone of India’s Test lineup.

Ashwin’s Test career included many memorable performances, including match-winning spells in both home and away conditions. His all-round capabilities also added depth to the Indian batting lineup, with five Test centuries to his name.

Contributions Across Formats
In white-ball cricket, Ashwin’s impact was equally significant. In ODIs, he picked up 156 wickets in 116 matches at an average of 33.20, with a best of 4/25. Additionally, he scored 707 runs with one fifty, showcasing his versatility. In T20Is, Ashwin played 65 matches, claiming 72 wickets with his pinpoint accuracy and guile.

Across all formats, Ashwin’s tally of 765 wickets places him second only to Anil Kumble (953) among India’s highest wicket-takers. He was also part of India’s victorious campaigns in the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy.

Ashwin’s Final Act in the Baggy Blue
In the ongoing Test series against Australia, Ashwin played the day-night Test in Adelaide, picking up one wicket. However, he was replaced by Ravindra Jadeja for the Brisbane Test. Despite a quiet farewell match, his legacy as a giant in Indian cricket remains untarnished.

The Journey Ahead
Though stepping away from international cricket, Ashwin will continue to grace the cricket field in T20 tournaments, including the IPL. Representing Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the 2025 season, Ashwin’s fans will still have the opportunity to witness his magic.

Tributes Pour In
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) paid tribute to Ashwin with a post on X, calling him “a name synonymous with mastery, wizardry, brilliance, and innovation.” Fans, former teammates, and cricketing legends worldwide echoed similar sentiments, celebrating a career defined by relentless pursuit of excellence.

The Legacy
Ashwin’s retirement leaves a gaping void in the Indian cricket setup. His unmatched ability to outthink batters, coupled with his dedication to constant evolution, sets a benchmark for aspiring cricketers. As the second-highest wicket-taker for India across formats, Ashwin’s legacy is not just in numbers but in the indelible impact he leaves on Indian cricket.

As he exits the international stage, R. Ashwin’s career will be remembered as a blend of intellect, artistry, and resilience—a true testament to his undying passion for the game.