Tendulkar Honors Ashwin's Inspiring Legacy After Retirement

New Delhi, Dec 18 (NationPress) Renowned Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar remarked that the legacy of the retired off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin will serve as a source of inspiration for everyone, while commending the Chennai-based player for seamlessly blending intellect and emotion in his approach to the game. Ashwin, aged 38, made the announcement of his retirement from international cricket effective immediately following the conclusion of India's third Test against Australia, which ended in a draw at the Gabba, Brisbane, a match he was not part of.

“Ashwin, I have consistently admired your approach to cricket, where your mind and heart work in perfect harmony. Your mastery of the carrom ball and your ability to contribute vital runs have always led to victories,” Tendulkar expressed.

“It has been a pleasure to witness your evolution from a budding talent to one of India's premier match-winners. Your journey exemplifies that true greatness comes from the willingness to innovate and adapt. Your legacy will inspire everyone. Wishing you the best for your next chapter,” Tendulkar shared in a post on ‘X’.

Ashwin concludes his 14-year international career with an impressive tally of 537 wickets at an average of 24 across 106 Tests, ranking as India's second leading wicket-taker, following the legendary leg-spinner Anil Kumble. His record includes 37 five-wicket hauls in Tests, the second-highest in cricket history, along with eight ten-wicket hauls.

Roger Binny, the President of BCCI, also paid tribute to Ashwin's exceptional international career. “Ashwin’s brilliance has been fundamental to the success of Indian cricket over the years. He transitioned from a gifted talent to one of the greatest off-spinners in the history of the sport, and his accomplishments are a matter of great pride,” he stated.

“He revolutionized spin bowling and consistently sought to stay at the forefront. Ashwin serves as an exemplary role model for aspiring cricketers. I am grateful for his invaluable contributions to Indian cricket,” he added.

Ashwin has also amassed six Test centuries and 14 fifties with the bat. His last international appearance was in the day-night Test against Australia in Adelaide, where he recorded figures of 1-53 in 18 overs and scored 29 runs, as India suffered a defeat by 10 wickets. Ashwin retires with a remarkable 115 Test wickets against Australia and 114 against England. Notably, he claimed 115 wickets in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the second-most in the history of this contest.

“Ashwin’s journey is a testimony to the heights that passion and dedication can reach. His ability to think ahead of the game has been a tremendous asset to Indian cricket. We have seen in Ashwin a bowler who not only took wickets but effectively dismantled batting strategies,” noted Rajeev Shukla, BCCI Vice-President. “His approach to the game, coupled with his extraordinary skill set, has established him as one of the most respected cricketers of his era. I congratulate him on an outstanding career,” he concluded.

Ashwin has also participated in 116 ODIs for India, capturing 156 wickets, and was part of the victorious teams in the 2011 ODI World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy. Additionally, he played in 65 T20I matches, taking 72 wickets.

Ashwin stands among only 11 all-rounders to achieve the remarkable double of 3000 runs and 300 wickets in Tests. He also holds a record 11 Player-of-the-Series awards, tying with Sri Lanka’s Muttiah Muralitharan.

“Ashwin has been a transformative figure in every regard. His enchanting spells on the field and insightful discussions off it have added something truly unique to Indian cricket.”

“His knack for reinventing himself, developing new bowling variations, and consistently performing at the highest level cements his status as a true legend. His extraordinary career will serve as a model for future generations of cricketers who will look up to him as an ideal role model,” concluded Devajit Saikia, BCCI acting secretary.