Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India’s legendary off-spinners, recently made his unexpected retirement from international cricket public, leaving fans and cricket enthusiasts stunned. The shocking decision has come in during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, and his absence during this series has generated much speculation. Here is an insight into the details related to his retirement and what it may mean for Indian cricket.
Ravichandran Ashwin Sudden Announcement
On Wednesday, December 18, 2024, Ravichandran Ashwin announced that he would retire from international cricket. This news is a shock, especially coming in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where all stakes are high. Rohit Sharma, his test captain, told reporters during the post-match conference that Ashwin would not travel to Melbourne for the next match; instead, he would go back home to Chennai.
Ashwin’s decision seems to have been personal, and he has asked himself for time. However, his exit marks the end of a glorious chapter in Indian cricket, leaving a huge void in the spin department.
Ravichandran Ashwin: Emotional Homecoming in Chennai
Ashwin touched down at the Madras International Airport in Chennai around the early hours of Thursday. Though he avoided media interaction, his homecoming was an emotional moment for his family and fans.
Ashwin’s parents and neighbors welcomed him warmly. His father embraced him with hugs and kisses, while his mother was moved to tears seeing her son return after this life-changing announcement. His wife and daughters were also by his side, offering their unwavering support.
A Stalwart’s Impressive Career
Ashwin’s cricketing career is just the stuff of legends. Starting his career in 2011 against the West Indies at New Delhi, he went on to become one of the most dependable spinners for the Indian team.
- Test Cricket: In the Test format, Ashwin picked up 537 wickets in 106 matches. He became the only Indian bowler to surpass 500 wickets after Anil Kumble.
- Limited Over formats: He also scored substantially in 116 ODIs and 65 T20 Internationals.
- Batting Contributions: Behind the bat, Ashwin was more than a handy lower-order player, as he delivered crucial runs when needed.
Earlier this year, he joined an elite group of bowlers worldwide to achieve 500 Test wickets, further cementing his status as an all-time great.
Ravichandran Ashwin: Reactions from the Cricketing Fraternity
Ashwin’s sudden retirement evoked emotional responses from fans, players, and the cricketing community.
Rohit Sharma, his Test captain, termed him as an “all-time great.” He expressed his gratitude towards Ashwin, saying that he had turned numerous games and was precious to Indian cricket. A tearful farewell was seen when Ashwin was hugged in the dressing room by his skipper Virat Kohli, which showed the close relationship and respect he created.
The Future of Ravichandran Ashwin
Although Ashwin has withdrawn from international cricket, he has hinted at continuing his cricket journey at the domestic and club levels. “There’s a bit left in me as a cricketer, but I would like to exploit it at the domestic and club-level cricket,” he said during a brief interaction with reporters.
Ashwin’s experience and talent can be very useful in imparting knowledge to emerging players. Whether it’s coaching or playing, his contributions are going to stay important in the cricketing sphere.
FAQs
1. Why did Ravichandran Ashwin retire unexpectedly?
Ashwin’s retirement seems to be a decision taken by him personally, and he has asked for privacy. The precise reasons are not known.
2. How many Test wickets did Ashwin take?
Ashwin took 537 wickets in 106 Test matches, which is India’s second-highest wicket-taker after Anil Kumble.
3. What does Ashwin plan to do after retirement?
Ashwin has said that he wants to continue playing cricket at the domestic and club levels.
4. Did Ashwin achieve any major milestones recently?
Yes, earlier in 2024, Ashwin became only the second Indian bowler to cross 500 Test wickets, joining an elite list of global cricketers.
5. How has the cricketing fraternity reacted to Ashwin’s retirement?
Players and fans have showered admiration and gratitude for Ashwin. His Test captain, Rohit Sharma, described him as an “all-time great.”
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