Ravichandran Ashwin Retirement Stuns Cricket World
India’s legendary spinner, Ravichandran Ashwin, shocked the cricket world. He retired from international cricket after the drawn Test with Australia in Brisbane. Ashwin played 106 Tests and took 537 wickets. He is India’s second-highest wicket-taker, behind Anil Kumble.
Reacting to the announcement, Australia captain Pat Cummins expressed surprise. “A bit of a surprise, he has been a champion player for them. One of the greats who played a lot over the last 10-plus years. He’s had a wonderful career and massive respect from our change room for the career he has had, said Pat Cummins.
Tributes From Cricket Legends
Former Australian pacer Brett Lee praised Ashwin’s career. Former Australia pacer Brett Lee also paid a tribute to Ashwin, calling him “one of the greatest” players of the game.
“This guy is one of the greats of the game. The last time a spinner retired mid way through a series was Graeme Swann, I think,” said Lee.
Former Australian wicketkeeper Brad Haddin praised Ashwin’s legacy. He said the 14-year veteran had earned the right to retire on his terms. “More will come out when Ashwin has his opportunity to speak; just reading between the lines, it looked like he may have been a bit frustrated with the spinning options that they’ve changed in the first three Test matches. To me, he was a student of the game (and) always looking at ways to get better … he’s earned the right.”
England’s ex-captain Michael Vaughan reflected on Ashwin’s unique skillset. “He may have been told that he’s not going to play any further part in this series, and rightly so, (he) just decided to go out on his own terms. I’m going to miss his bowling, that flight, carom balls, his abilities to bowl in all conditions … (in India) a batter has got no chance when you’re facing that quality.”
Ravichandran Ashwin’s Record-Breaking Career
Hailing from Chennai, Ashwin ends his career as a modern great of Indian cricket. Here’s a look at his remarkable stats:
- Test Matches: 106
- Wickets: 537
- Bowling Average: 24
- Batting Records: 6 centuries and 14 half-centuries
- ODIs: 116 matches, 156 wickets
- Part of India’s 2011 World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy-winning squads.
- T20Is: 65 matches, 72 wickets
Ashwin’s last international game was the day-night Test in Adelaide, where he bowled 1/53.
Legacy of a Cricketing Genius
In 14 years, Ravichandran Ashwin redefined spin bowling. His tactics and variety were brilliant. His ability to excel in all conditions, and his batting, made him a legend of the sport.
With Ashwin’s retirement, cricket bids farewell to a player who left an indelible mark on the game. Fans and players will miss the spinner’s ability to outthink batters, especially on Indian pitches.
