7 Factors That Pushed Ravichandran Ashwin to End His International Career
On December 18, 2024, Indian cricket bid farewell to a great match-winner. Ravichandran Ashwin retired from international cricket. The off-spinner played 106 Tests. He took 537 wickets and scored 3503 runs. He decided to quit after India’s drawn Brisbane Test in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Ashwin’s announcement shocked fans and experts, given the timing in a key series. We break down the key factors that may have influenced Ashwin’s early retirement.
The Timeline of Events Leading to Retirement
Ashwin’s retirement was not sudden. It seemed to be the result of several events. Reports say the veteran spinner wanted to retire after the first Test of the series.
Ashwin was dropped for the series opener. He returned for the second Test. But, he was sidelined again in favor of Ravindra Jadeja for the third match. The management’s inconsistent support, along with rising competition, may have hastened his retirement.
1.The Rise of Washington Sundar
Washington Sundar’s rise as a reliable all-rounder hurt Ashwin’s spot on the team. Sundar’s 10-wicket haul against New Zealand in 2024 showed his all-round skills. His stellar performances included this match.
At just 25, Sundar represents the future of Indian cricket. His inclusion in the XI shows the team’s focus on youth and long-term prospects. This shift made it harder for Ashwin to keep his spot. He was competing against younger players with similar skills.
2.Age and Fitness Concerns
At 38, Ashwin was one of the oldest members of the Indian squad. His skill and experience were never in doubt. But, age led to scrutiny over his fitness for international cricket.
India’s busy schedule and Test cricket likely influenced Ashwin and the team. Critics often noted his decline in overseas tours. It fed the view that the team needed younger, fitter options.
3.The WTC Final Controversy
Ashwin’s exclusion from the playing XI in the 2023-24 World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia remains one of the most controversial decisions in Indian cricket.
Despite being the top wicket-taker of the WTC cycle, Ashwin was benched. The conditions seemed perfect for his bowling. The move drew widespread criticism and reportedly left Ashwin disillusioned. It also showed a lack of faith in his abilities in overseas conditions. This may have added to the frustrations that influenced his retirement.
4.Pressure After the New Zealand Whitewash
India’s shocking 3-0 home series defeat to New Zealand in 2024 was another turning point in Ashwin’s career. On spin-friendly tracks, Ashwin’s underwhelming performance came under heavy scrutiny as the team struggled to contain New Zealand’s batters.
This defeat changed team dynamics. Management now focused on rebuilding the squad. Kohli and Sharma were untouchable. But, Ashwin became a target for those wanting change.
5.Lack of Support in Overseas Tests
Ashwin’s overseas record, especially in SENA countries, is often debated. Critics noted his lack of five-wicket hauls in these regions. They acknowledged his contributions in holding roles and taking key wickets.
His omission from the WTC final and other key matches showed a lack of support from the team management. This lack of support likely led him to quit the international stage.
6.Competition From Ravindra Jadeja
Ravindra Jadeja and Ashwin were a great spin duo for years. But, the all-rounder’s better fielding and batting have made him the top choice now.
Jadeja’s rise as a match-winner in tough, overseas conditions often benched Ashwin in key games. The management’s choice of Jadeja in the XI this series signaled a shift away from Ashwin.
7.A Tough Home Series and Transition Pressure
Even at home, where Ashwin has excelled, his recent performances were less effective. Critics noted less impact from Ashwin’s bowling. But, a century against Bangladesh showed his batting skills.
India’s transition phase, with a focus on younger players, put pressure on senior players like Ashwin. The management’s intent to bring in new talent pushed him to retire early.
Ashwin’s Legacy: Tarnished by Circumstances?
Ravichandran Ashwin retires as one of India’s greatest spinners. He has 537 Test wickets, 37 five-wicket hauls, and over 3500 runs. His contributions to Indian cricket are immeasurable.
However, his final years were marked by controversy, inconsistent selection, and a lack of support from the management. Change is inevitable in any team. Ashwin’s case raises questions about how to treat senior players during transitions.
It sets a worrying precedent to force a player of Ashwin’s caliber into early retirement. Veterans who served the team well deserve a dignified exit. They should be free from the politics and pressures that often cloud team selections.
A Farewell to a Champion
Despite the bittersweet circumstances of his retirement, Ashwin’s legacy remains untarnished. Fans will forever cherish Ashwin’s contributions. They include his match-winning spells against Australia in Chennai. They also include his heroics in India’s historic 2020-21 series win Down Under.
As Indian cricket advances with talents like Washington Sundar, it won’t be easy to fill Ashwin’s void. His journey, though sad at the end, inspires future cricketers.
The cricketing world bids farewell to a true legend. We hope his wisdom will benefit the game in other roles