Ravichandran Ashwin Announces Immediate Retirement from International Cricket
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Brisbane, Dec 18 (NationPress) The experienced off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has officially announced his retirement from international cricket with immediate effect. This decision was made known by Ashwin following the conclusion of the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test held in Brisbane, which concluded in a draw due to rain.
“This marks my final day as an Indian cricketer in all formats on the international stage. I still believe there is a bit of fire left in me as a player, but I wish to channel that into club-level cricket. Today will be my last day. I have thoroughly enjoyed my journey,” said Ashwin.
“I have built countless memories with Rohit and many other teammates, though I’ve lost some along the way. We are part of the final group of 'originals' still present in the dressing room. I will remember this date as the day I played at this level,” Ashwin shared during the post-match press conference.
Ashwin concludes his remarkable career with a tally of 537 wickets at an impressive average of 24 across 106 Tests, making him India’s second-leading wicket-taker after the legendary Anil Kumble. Additionally, he scored six Test centuries and 14 fifties during his career. His last international appearance was in the day-night Test in Adelaide, where he achieved figures of 1-53.
His retirement seemed imminent when television footage displayed an emotional Ashwin receiving a hug from Virat Kohli on the balcony of the dressing room during a rain delay. Ashwin has also participated in 116 ODIs for India, taking 156 wickets and being part of the squads that won the 2011 ODI World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy.
Ashwin has played 65 T20I matches and taken 72 wickets. “There are many people I wish to thank, but I would be remiss if I didn’t express my gratitude to the BCCI and my fellow teammates, many of whom have been pivotal in my journey,” he remarked.
“I owe thanks to all the coaches who have been part of this journey, especially Rohit, Virat (Kohli), Ajinkya (Rahane), and Cheteshwar (Pujara), who have taken those crucial catches to help me achieve my wicket tally over the years. A heartfelt thank you to the Australian cricket team as well, who have been fierce competitors. I have cherished my time competing against them,” Ashwin added.
In Tests, Ashwin was a significant contributor to the Indian team’s 12-year home dominance and played a crucial role in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy victory in Australia. He is one of only 11 all-rounders to achieve the double of 3000 runs and 300 wickets in Tests. Moreover, he holds a record of 11 Player-of-the-Series awards, tied with Muthiah Muralitharan.
“I believe I’ve spoken enough. I won’t be taking any questions, as this is an extremely emotional moment. I don’t think I can answer your queries appropriately, so I hope you’ll forgive me for that. Once again, this marks the end of my time,” he stated.
“Thank you for being the journalists you are, writing both the good and the not-so-good things. I value the relationship we have built. I hope future cricketers receive the same love you have shown me,” he concluded.
“Thank you all. I’ll see you soon. As a cricketer, I have retired, but I may remain involved with the game that has given me everything. Thank you,” Ashwin expressed in closing.
