New Delhi, Dec 22 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi has conveyed his heartfelt congratulations to off-spin legend Ravichandran Ashwin on his notable career following his retirement from international cricket. The PM remarked that Ashwin's jersey number 99 will be greatly missed on the cricket pitch.

After concluding his 14-year international journey with a draw at the Gabba Test, Ashwin leaves behind an impressive legacy as one of India’s premier match-winners. His final international appearance was the day-night Test against Australia in Adelaide, where he recorded figures of 1-53 in his 18 overs and added 29 runs with the bat.

In his letter, PM Modi referred to Ashwin’s retirement as an unexpected twist, comparing it to a surprising carrom ball rather than the expected off-breaks.

“The announcement of your retirement from international cricket has taken fans in India and around the globe by surprise. Just when everyone anticipated more off-breaks, you bowled a carrom ball that left everyone astonished. Nonetheless, we understand that this must have been a tough decision for you, especially after the remarkable career you’ve had representing India,” the letter stated.

“Please accept my warmest congratulations for a career filled with brilliance, diligence, and team spirit above all else.”

“As you say goodbye to international cricket, jersey number 99 will certainly be missed. Enthusiasts of the game will long for the anticipation they felt when you stepped onto the field to bowl - there was always a sense that you were crafting a web that would ensnare an adversary at any moment. Your remarkable ability to outsmart batsmen with traditional off-spin and innovative variations was impressive, adapting to the needs of the situation,” the letter further elaborated.

Ashwin's international journey commenced in 2010 with his ODI debut against Sri Lanka, followed by his Test debut against the West Indies a year later. Over an impressive span of 106 Tests, 116 ODIs, and 65 T20Is, he amassed a total of 765 wickets across all formats.

“Every one of the 765 international wickets you secured across all formats was unique. Your record of the highest number of Player of the Series awards in Test matches exemplifies the significant impact you had on the team’s achievements in Tests over the years.”

“As a budding talent, you made an impressive five-wicket haul on your Test debut and were part of the ODI World Cup-winning team in 2011. By the time you led the team to victory in the last over of the Champions Trophy in 2013, you had established yourself as a vital player. Subsequently, you played a pivotal role as a senior member of the team, contributing to multiple victories across all formats. As a recipient of the ICC Cricketer of the Year award, you have garnered international respect and acclaim,” the letter continued.

Ashwin played an instrumental role in India’s 12-year home dominance and the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy triumph in Australia. He stands among 11 all-rounders with 3000 Test runs and 300 wickets, sharing the record for 11 Player-of-the-Series awards with Muttiah Muralitharan.

“You have demonstrated your all-round capabilities by scoring a century while also taking five wickets in the same match on numerous occasions. With the bat, you have provided our nation with countless memorable moments, including a courageous match-saving innings in Sydney in 2021.”

“While many are remembered for extraordinary shots, you hold the unique honor of being remembered for both a shot and a leave in the iconic WT20 match of 2022. Your winning shot brought forth jubilant cheers, while your decision to leave the ball, allowing it to become a wide, showcased your keen presence of mind.”

“Even in challenging times, your dedication and commitment shone through. We remember the way you returned to contribute to the team despite your mother being hospitalized, and how you continued playing against South Africa even when you were unable to contact your family due to floods in Chennai.”

“As we look back on your career, your adaptability and flexibility are evident. Your ability to adjust your strategy according to various formats was a tremendous asset to the team. I wonder if your engineering education contributed to your meticulous and detail-oriented approach, which has received praise from many analysts and peers. I am confident that such knowledge will benefit future generations of young cricketers.”

“Your wit and warmth in conversations have been cherished by fans. I hope you continue to share your ‘Kutti Stories’ regarding cricket, sports, and life.”

“As an ambassador of the game, both on and off the field, you have brought pride to the nation and your family. I take this moment to congratulate your parents, your wife Prithi, and your daughters. Their sacrifices and unwavering support have undoubtedly played a vital role in your journey as a cricketer and an individual. I hope you find more time to spend with them, something you have undoubtedly longed for.”

“May you discover ways to keep contributing to the game you cherish. Once again, my heartfelt congratulations on a distinguished career and best wishes for the future,” it concluded.