Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India's premier spin bowlers, announced his retirement from international cricket, concluding his illustrious career after the third Test match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Brisbane. This decision marks the end of a significant chapter in Indian cricket. Ashwin is scheduled to return to India on Thursday, formalizing the next step in his life beyond the international arena.
At a press conference following the Brisbane Test, Ashwin conveyed that this would be the final day he would represent India in international formats. He acknowledged feeling capable of contributing more on the field but expressed his desire to channel his skills into club-level cricket rather than continuing at the international level. Reflecting on his journey, Ashwin shared sentiments about the memorable experiences he has had while playing alongside stalwarts like Rohit Sharma and numerous teammates. He remarked on the evolution of the team, recognizing those who have come and gone over the years while emphasizing the value of the camaraderie built with the remaining core group.
Expressing gratitude, Ashwin acknowledged the contributions of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), coaches, and players who have been instrumental in his journey. He particularly applauded his colleagues, such as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, and Cheteshwar Pujara, crediting their outstanding fielding work for his remarkable wicket tally throughout his career. He also took a moment to extend his appreciation to the Australian cricket team, underscoring the competitive spirit they exhibited over the years.
Although Ashwin was not open to engaging with the media on this emotional day, he expressed the importance of the relationship he shared with journalists, reflecting on the dual nature of their coverage, which included both commendations and criticism over time.
Despite his retirement from international play, Ashwin made it clear that his association with cricket would continue. He hinted at opportunities in domestic leagues, particularly highlighting his connection to the Chennai Super Kings, for whom he had recently been acquired in the IPL auction for INR 9.75 crore. Ashwin, now a seasoned player, anticipates maintaining an active presence in cricket, irrespective of the change in format.
Rohit Sharma, present during the announcement, discussed the deeply personal nature of Ashwin's decision. He reaffirmed the respect the team held for Ashwin's choice and noted that such decisions should be honored. Sharma recounted how Ashwin had been contemplating this move for some time, illustrating the thoughtfulness that went into the decision. He emphasized the need for the team to regroup and reflect on the implications of Ashwin's departure, particularly as they look towards future challenges in various formats.
As Ashwin transitions away from international cricket, he does so as one of the most successful Test players in Indian history. Finishing as the second-highest wicket-taker for India in Tests, he amassed a remarkable 537 wickets at an average of 24 over 106 matches. This record places him just behind the legendary Anil Kumble, who concluded his career with 619 wickets in 132 Tests.
During the recent series against Australia, Ashwin's participation was limited, making an impact in only one match. He had previously experienced fluctuations in performance, only claiming nine wickets in his last series against New Zealand, with an average of over 41. His standing in the team had diminished for overseas matches, and with India's next tour set for England, Ashwin's age—39 at the onset of the next home season—further complicated his prospects for international play.
Apart from his employment as a bowler, he also made significant contributions with the bat, amassing 3,503 runs in Tests, complemented by six centuries and 14 half-centuries. Ashwin's status as an allrounder is underscored by his unique achievement of surpassing both 3,000 runs and 300 wickets, a feat accomplished by only ten other players in the format. His excellence had earned him a record 11 Player-of-the-Series awards, tying him with Sri Lankan great Muthiah Muralidaran.
In addition to his Test career, which commenced in 2010, Ashwin had a successful run in One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is). In ODIs, he secured 156 wickets with an average of 33.20, while his T20I career saw him take 72 wickets, maintaining an economy rate of 6.90. However, Ashwin had not played a white-ball match for India since October 2023, during the ODI World Cup in Chennai.
As Ashwin steps away from the international cricket stage, the legacy he leaves behind is one of durability, skill, and immense contribution to Indian cricket. His journey may be evolving, but the impact he made during his career is bound to resonate within the hearts of cricket enthusiasts and aspiring players alike in India and beyond.