Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, one of cricket’s most decorated and revered players, has announced his retirement from international cricket following the dramatic conclusion of the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia.
The match, played at The Gabba, ended in a rain-affected draw, leaving the series evenly poised at 1-1. Ashwin’s retirement marks the end of a storied career spanning over two decades, during which he left an indelible mark on Indian cricket.
An Emotional Farewell
Ashwin announced during the post-match press conference alongside India’s captain, Rohit Sharma. The veteran spinner was visibly emotional as he broke the news, saying,
“I don’t want to make it about myself. This is my last day as an international cricketer. I’ve had a lot of fun and made countless memories alongside Rohit [Sharma] and several of my teammates.”
The anticipation of Ashwin’s decision had been building throughout the day. Cameras captured a poignant moment when Virat Kohli embraced him on the field, a gesture that spoke volumes about their camaraderie and shared history. Moments later, Rohit Sharma rose from his seat during the press conference to embrace Ashwin, further underlining the team’s deep respect and affection for him.
Ashwin’s announcement was brief but heartfelt. He expressed gratitude to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), his teammates, and the coaches who had supported him throughout his illustrious career.
“I want to name a few of them: Rohit, Virat [Kohli], Ajinkya [Rahane], [Cheteshwar] Pujara, and the others who’ve taken catches around the bat and helped me claim the wickets I’ve managed over the years,”
he said.
A Career of Remarkable Achievements
Ashwin’s cricketing journey is one of unparalleled success and consistency. In 106 Tests, he claimed 537 wickets, including an astounding 37 five-wicket hauls, and scored 3,503 runs. He stands as the seventh-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket and the second-highest for India, behind Anil Kumble’s record of 619 scalps.
Ashwin’s mastery extended beyond the longest format. In ODIs, he took 156 wickets in 116 matches, with best figures of 4/25, and scored 707 runs. In T20Is, he claimed 72 wickets in 65 matches and scored 184 runs. Across all formats, Ashwin is India’s second-highest wicket-taker with 765 dismissals, next only to Kumble’s 953.
His contributions were not limited to the ball. Ashwin’s batting prowess made him a reliable lower-order batsman, capable of crucial runs under pressure. His all-round abilities were pivotal in India’s victories in the 2011 ICC World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy.
A Legacy Beyond Numbers
Ashwin’s impact on Indian cricket transcends statistics. Known for his tactical brilliance and innovation, he redefined the art of off-spin by adding his unique variations to established techniques. His ability to adapt and excel across formats made him an invaluable asset to the Indian team.
Between 2014 and 2019, Ashwin spearheaded India’s bowling attack, playing a key role in the team’s rise to the top of the ICC Test rankings. His dominance in home conditions was unparalleled, as he routinely outfoxed opposition batsmen with his guile and precision.
Tributes from Teammates and Fans
Ashwin’s announcement was met with an outpouring of tributes from teammates, fans, and cricketing legends. Virat Kohli, who has shared the field with Ashwin for 14 years, penned an emotional note on social media:
“Your skill and match-winning contributions to Indian cricket are second to none. You will always be remembered as a legend of Indian cricket. Thanks for everything, buddy.”
Rohit Sharma hailed Ashwin as “a true match-winner,” emphasising the spinner’s critical role in India’s success over the years. The team’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, also praised Ashwin for his leadership and influence on younger players.
Brisbane Test Ends in Draw
The third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy was overshadowed by persistent rain, which disrupted play and ultimately forced a draw. Australia had declared their second innings at 89/7, setting India a target of 275. However, only 24 deliveries were bowled on the final day due to adverse weather conditions.
India’s efforts to save the match were led by Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep, whose spirited lower-order partnership in the first innings helped India avoid a follow-on. KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal looked solid in India’s second innings before rain curtailed proceedings.
The series now heads into its final match, with both teams tied at 1-1. While the focus will shift to the decider, Ashwin’s retirement has left an emotional void in the Indian camp.
The Road Ahead
As Ashwin steps away from international cricket, he leaves behind a legacy of excellence and a towering challenge for future generations to match his achievements. His influence on the game, both in India and globally, will be remembered for years to come. For fans and teammates alike, Ashwin’s retirement marks the end of an era—one defined by skill, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of greatness.
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