Veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has announced his retirement from all forms of international cricket with immediate effect. The shocking news came right after the conclusion of the drawn third Test between India and Australia in Brisbane. Ashwin joined Indian captain Rohit Sharma at the post-match press conference to share the emotional announcement.
Ashwin’s illustrious career spanned over a decade, with the spinner amassing 765 international wickets in 287 matches. His incredible tally includes 537 Test wickets, second only to Anil Kumble among Indian bowlers. The 38-year-old also contributed significantly with the bat, notably scoring the winning runs against Pakistan during India’s thrilling chase in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022.
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Ashwin’s Career Highlights
Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement marks the end of an extraordinary journey in cricket.
- Test Cricket: With 537 wickets in 106 Tests, Ashwin became one of India’s most reliable bowlers in the longest format. His ability to outwit batsmen on any surface made him a key player in the Indian team.
- Limited-Overs Success: In addition to his Test success, Ashwin scalped 156 wickets in ODIs and 72 wickets in T20Is.
- Historic Moments: From playing pivotal roles in Test victories to delivering under pressure in T20 World Cups, Ashwin’s legacy is adorned with memorable contributions.
His journey was not just about the numbers but the memories he created with teammates and fans.
Ashwin’s Emotional Farewell Speech
Ashwin delivered a heartfelt speech during the press conference, expressing gratitude to his teammates, coaches, and fans. Here’s an excerpt from his statement:
“This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats at the international level. While I feel there’s still some cricket left in me, I’d like to continue showcasing my skills at the club level. I’ve created countless memories with my teammates, especially Rohit, Virat (Kohli), Ajinkya (Rahane), and Cheteshwar (Pujara), who’ve all supported me through this journey.”
He also thanked his fierce competitors, particularly the Australian cricket team, for the memorable battles over the years.
“A big thank you to the Australian cricket team. They’ve always been fierce competitors, and I’ve enjoyed playing against them.”
Ashwin’s humility shone through as he acknowledged both praise and criticism from journalists, saying it was part of the journey.
Legacy of a Cricketing Icon
Ashwin’s retirement leaves a significant void in Indian cricket. Known for his sharp cricketing mind and incredible skill set, he was a match-winner in every sense. While his international career has come to an end, Ashwin hinted at staying involved in the game, which has given him “everything.”
As cricket fans bid farewell to one of India’s greatest spinners, his contributions will continue to inspire future generations.