Breaking: R Ashwin Announces Retirement from International Cricket
In a shocking development, Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India’s greatest spinners, has announced his retirement from international cricket. The veteran cricketer announced this after the drawn third Test with Australia in Brisbane. It was part of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Series.
The 38-year-old spinner confirmed his decision at a press conference with Indian skipper Rohit Sharma. He said,
I don’t want to make it about myself. This is my last day as international cricketer. I have created a lot of memories. We are the last bunch of OGs in the dressing room. Lot of people to thank, BCCI, my fellow teammates, all the coaches, Ashwin said, as quoted by RevSportz.
The retirement, coming while Ashwin remains a top-performing bowler, has left fans surprised. Ashwin has played only the day-night Test in Adelaide in this series. Yet, he is a giant in Indian cricket history.
R Ashwin’s Test Cricket Legacy
Ravichandran Ashwin retires as one of India’s best Test cricketers. Since his 2010 international debut, Ashwin has been a master. He is known for his consistency, especially in Test cricket. His stats speak volumes about his impact on the game:
- Matches Played: 106
- Wickets Taken: 537 (Average: 24.13)
- Five-Wicket Hauls: 37
- Best Bowling Figures: 7/59
- Second-Highest Wicket-Taker for India in Tests (behind Anil Kumble with 619 wickets).
Ashwin could bowl in any conditions. His sharp mind made him a leader of India’s bowling attack for over a decade. He is famous for his knack for breakthroughs at crucial moments and for his dominance at home.
The Lead-Up to the Retirement
Ashwin reportedly told the Indian team of his retirement plans before the Border-Gavaskar Series. However, Rohit Sharma convinced him to play the pink-ball Test in Adelaide, where Ashwin took one wicket.
The spinner’s absence in the next two matches, replaced by Ravindra Jadeja, showed he wanted to retire from international cricket. Ashwin, however, thanked the team, BCCI, and his teammates in his farewell speech.
“There are so many people to thank—the BCCI, my teammates, all the coaches I’ve worked with,” Ashwin added.
Rain Halts India’s Gabba Comeback
The third Test in Brisbane saw India and Australia battle for dominance. But, the weather spoiled the game. After conceding a 185-run first-innings lead, India’s bowlers roared back. Jasprit Bumrah (3/18) led them, reducing Australia to 89/7 in their second innings.
Australia declared, setting India a challenging target of 275 runs in 54 overs. However, rain, lightning, and bad light brought an early end to the day’s play, resulting in a draw.
The series is tied at 1-1. This raises excitement for the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Ashwin’s Future Plans
Ashwin has retired from international cricket. He will play in domestic T20s, including the IPL 2025, for the Chennai Super Kings. Fans can look forward to seeing Ashwin’s artistry and leadership in the shortest format of the game.
Tributes to R Ashwin
Ashwin’s retirement prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and teammates alike:
- Rohit Sharma (India Captain):
“He was very, very sure of his decision. We should stand by what he wants. His contributions have been massive for Indian cricket.”
- Virat Kohli (Teammate):
“One of the smartest minds in cricket. An absolute legend of the game.”
- BCCI (on X):
” Thank you Ashwin
A name synonymous with mastery, wizardry, brilliance, and innovation
The ace spinner and #TeamIndia‘s invaluable all-rounder announces his retirement from international cricket. Congratulations on a legendary career, @ashwinravi99“
𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝘼𝙨𝙝𝙬𝙞𝙣 🫡
A name synonymous with mastery, wizardry, brilliance, and innovation 👏👏
The ace spinner and #TeamIndia‘s invaluable all-rounder announces his retirement from international cricket.
Congratulations on a legendary career, @ashwinravi99 ❤️ pic.twitter.com/swSwcP3QXA
— BCCI (@BCCI) December 18, 2024
Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement marks the end of an era in Indian cricket. His bowling, tactical brilliance, and batting will impact the game. His presence on the world stage will be missed. Fans can cherish his legacy and look forward to seeing him in T20 leagues.
As India readies for the Boxing Day Test, they will miss Ashwin. His impact on Indian cricket is now part of history.
Thank you, Ashwin, for the memories and inspiration!