India’s legendary off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to an illustrious 14-year career. The announcement came on Wednesday following the third Test against Australia, which ended in a draw.
Ashwin’s Farewell
- Speaking at the press conference, the 38-year-old stated:
- “This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats at the international level.”
- He expressed his intent to continue playing cricket at the club level, saying, “I do feel there’s a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer, but I would like to showcase that in club level cricket.”
- Fond Memories:
- Ashwin shared heartfelt gratitude for his teammates, especially mentioning captain Rohit Sharma, who stood beside him during the announcement.
- “I had a lot of fun. I must say, I created a lot of memories alongside Rohit and several of my other teammates,” he added.
Career Highlights
- Test Cricket:
- Played 106 Tests, taking 537 wickets, the second-highest for India after Anil Kumble (619).
- Contributed significantly with the bat, scoring 6 centuries and establishing himself as a reliable all-rounder.
- Limited-Overs Cricket:
- Featured in 116 ODIs and 65 T20 Internationals, finishing with a combined tally of 765 wickets across formats.
- Memorable Performances:
- A master of exploiting Indian turning tracks, Ashwin was a proven match-winner, especially in home conditions.
- Known for his adaptability and sharp cricketing intellect, Ashwin was instrumental in several iconic victories for India.
Final Appearances and Decision
- After being left out of the first Test against Australia in Perth, Ashwin returned for the second Test in Adelaide, claiming a single wicket.
- However, the Adelaide Test turned out to be his final international appearance, as he was not selected for the subsequent game in Brisbane.
Legacy
Ashwin leaves behind a rich legacy as one of the greatest spin bowlers of modern cricket. His ability to innovate, his keen understanding of the game, and his all-round skills made him a cornerstone of India’s success for over a decade.
As he transitions to playing at the club level, fans and teammates alike will cherish his contributions to Indian cricket, both as a player and a tactician.
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