Rashid Latif: Ashwin's Genius Could Lead Him to BCCI or ICC Leadership
Click to start listening
New Delhi, Dec 20 (NationPress) As Ravichandran Ashwin, one of cricket's most renowned spinners, stunned fans and analysts alike with his abrupt retirement from international cricket, former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif offered high praise for the Indian star's strategic mindset and exceptional cricketing intellect, asserting that the 38-year-old possesses the potential to "take over the BCCI and ICC in the future".
Ashwin concluded his illustrious career following the draw of the Gabba Test on Wednesday, leaving behind a significant legacy as one of India's greatest match-winners. His final international appearance occurred during the day-night Test against Australia in Adelaide, where he recorded figures of 1-53 across his 18 overs and contributed 29 runs in a losing effort.
"As a cricketer, Ashwin may not have garnered the respect he rightfully deserves in the dressing room; I cannot speak to that. He’s left contemplating his place in the playing XI. He ranks as the world’s No. 3 bowler, and achieving 537 wickets for India is an extraordinary feat," Rashid mentioned in an interview with IANS.
"It’s possible he senses that his career is approaching its twilight, particularly with players like Washington Sundar being favored, leading him to decide on his participation in the Sydney Test or even the Melbourne Test. Everyone reaches a breaking point at some stage. I’ve experienced that myself numerous times," he added.
Ashwin wrapped up his 14-year international journey with 537 wickets at an average of 24 in 106 Tests, making him India’s second-leading wicket-taker behind the legendary leg-spinner Anil Kumble (619). He also accumulated six Test centuries and 14 fifties. Additionally, he featured in 116 ODIs for India, claiming 156 wickets, and played 65 T20I matches, where he took 72 wickets. He was part of the victorious 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy teams.
"However, as a cricketer—truly a genius of the game—there are numerous players in India, yet Ashwin stands out at a different level. His abilities are exceptional. I am confident that in the future, he could ascend to leadership roles in the BCCI or ICC given his capabilities. He is remarkably humble, and you might not even realize the magnitude of his achievements. Sending my best wishes to him from Pakistan," Rashid expressed.
"He’s had an extraordinary career. Just look at his record; as a batsman, Ashwin has six centuries, a feat that Dhoni might not even match," the 56-year-old remarked.
Ashwin played a pivotal role in India’s 12-year home dominance and their triumph in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. He is among the elite group of 11 all-rounders with 3000 Test runs and 300 wickets and shares the record for 11 Player-of-the-Series awards with the Sri Lankan great Muttiah Muralitharan.
