Former Indian captain and legendary opener Sunil Gavaskar shared his thoughts on Ravichandran Ashwin’s unexpected retirement from international cricket. Ashwin announced his decision immediately after the drawn Gabba Test during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, leaving fans and experts in shock. Gavaskar compared Ashwin’s decision to MS Dhoni’s mid-series retirement during the 2014-15 Test series in Australia, highlighting the potential disruption such moves can cause to team planning.
Speaking to the broadcasters, Gavaskar said,
“He could have said, listen after the end of the series, I won’t be available for selection for India. What it does is that, similarly when MS Dhoni retired at the end of the 3rd Test in the 2014-15 series, it leaves you one short.”
Impact on Team Selection and Strategy
Gavaskar emphasized that Ashwin’s retirement could affect India’s strategy, particularly in spinner-friendly conditions like Sydney. He explained,
“The selection committee has picked so many players for a tour with a purpose. If there are any injuries, they can select from the reserve players. Sydney is somewhere there is a lot of support for spinners. India could have played with two spinners. You never know. He could have been there for sure.”
The former cricketer also remarked on the unusual timing of such decisions, stating that players generally wait until the end of a series to retire. “Normally, you tend to look at the end of the series. That’s it. In the middle, it is not usual,” he added.
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Washington Sundar: The Next in Line?
When asked if Washington Sundar is being prepared as Ashwin’s replacement, Gavaskar acknowledged the possibility. He noted,
“Maybe Washington Sundar is ahead of him. Rohit mentioned that Sundar is flying out tomorrow. So, this marks the end of Ashwin as an international cricketer. He has been one heck of a cricketer.”
Sundar himself paid tribute to Ashwin on Instagram, posting a heartfelt message about his teammate and mentor. He wrote,
“More than just a teammate – Ash anna, you have been an inspiration, a mentor, and a true champion of the game. It’s been an honour to share the field and the dressing room with you.”
Sundar also reflected on growing up watching Ashwin play at Chepauk, saying,
“Coming from the same state of Tamil Nadu, I have grown up watching you from close corners of Chepauk to playing against you and alongside you. Every moment has been a privilege. The learnings, both on and off the field, are something I will carry with me forever. Wishing you success and happiness in whatever comes next.”
A Crucial Turning Point in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy
Ashwin’s retirement comes at a pivotal moment in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, with the series tied at 1-1 after the Gabba Test. His absence leaves a significant gap in India’s bowling attack, especially with Melbourne and Sydney, venues that typically support spin, on the horizon.
As the team prepares for the next match, all eyes will be on how India adjusts their strategy to fill the void left by one of their finest spinners.