R Ashwin’s Sudden Retirement Criticized by Sunil Gavaskar
In a major announcement, R Ashwin said he retired from international cricket on December 18, 2024. This was after India’s third Test against Australia in Brisbane. The decision comes amidst the closely contested Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The series is tied 1-1. Cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar is unhappy. He says the announcement’s timing disrupted India’s campaign.
Gavaskar Criticizes Ashwin’s Timing
After the match, Sunil Gavaskar criticized Ashwin on Star Sports. He said it leaves the Indian team a player short for the last two Tests of the series. Gavaskar compared MS Dhoni’s sudden mid-series retirement in the 2014-15 series against Australia. He noted it could harm team stability.
“He could have said, listen after the end of the series, I won’t be available for selection. What it does is it leaves you one short, just like when Dhoni retired after the third Test in 2014-15.”
Key Impact on the Indian Team
Gavaskar noted the risks of Ashwin’s retirement. It might cost him at the spin-friendly Sydney Cricket Ground, the fourth Test’s venue. Historically, Sydney has favored spin bowlers. Gavaskar believes Ashwin could have been a game-changer.
“Sydney offers a lot of support for spinners. India could have played with two spinners there, and Ashwin might have made a difference,” Gavaskar remarked.
Washington Sundar’s Opportunity
Gavaskar, adding to his critique, suggested that all-rounder Washington Sundar might now be ahead of Ashwin in India’s spin pecking order. Sundar, known for his batting and bowling, could play a key role in the upcoming matches.
“Maybe Washington Sundar is ahead of him’.
Ashwin to Continue in Domestic Cricket and IPL
Ashwin has retired from international cricket. But, fans will see him in domestic tournaments and the IPL. The veteran spinner is set to represent Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the 2025 IPL season.
Ashwin’s mid-series retirement has undoubtedly sparked debate, with Gavaskar’s concerns shedding light on the challenges such decisions can pose to a team’s balance during high-stakes tournaments like the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
