On December 18, 2024, Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India’s most iconic cricketers, announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to a glittering 14-year career. The announcement came after India’s drawn third Test against Australia in Brisbane, confirming what many had speculated following an emotional moment between Ashwin and Virat Kohli on the final day of the match. As India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Tests, Ashwin leaves behind an indelible legacy, having made immense contributions to Indian cricket over the years.
Virat Kohli’s Emotional Farewell to Ashwin
Virat Kohli, who shared a long and successful partnership with Ashwin, took to social media to express his heartfelt emotions after hearing the news of his friend’s retirement. Posting on X (formerly Twitter), Kohli revealed that the moment Ashwin shared his retirement news with him was “a bit emotional,” as it triggered a flood of memories from their years together in the Indian team.
Kohli wrote: “I’ve played with you for 14 years and when you told me today you’re retiring, it made me a bit emotional and the flashbacks of all those years playing together came to me. I’ve enjoyed every bit of the journey with you, Ash, your skill and match-winning contributions to Indian cricket are second to none. You will always and always be remembered as a legend of Indian cricket. I wish you nothing but the best in your life with your family and everything else that unfolds for you. With massive respect and lots of love to you and your close ones. Thanks for everything, buddy.”
Ashwin’s Stellar Legacy in Test Cricket
Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement marks the end of an era in Indian cricket. With over 400 wickets in Test matches, Ashwin is regarded as one of the finest off-spinners in the history of the game. He is only second to the legendary Anil Kumble in terms of wickets taken by an Indian in Tests. Ashwin’s journey from a promising young spinner to a match-winner in all conditions has been remarkable, and his ability to turn a match with his craft and intelligence on the field made him a key figure in India’s cricketing dominance, especially in the longest format.
Ashwin’s retirement was not entirely unexpected, as rumors had been circulating for a while, especially after Kohli was seen sharing an emotional hug with him in the dressing room. Ashwin’s official confirmation during the post-match press conference with India’s captain Rohit Sharma only solidified these speculations. He bid farewell to international cricket with grace, stating, “I won’t take too much of your time. Today will be the last day for me as an India cricketer.”
Harbhajan Singh Surprised by Ashwin’s Retirement
The news of Ashwin’s retirement was met with surprise by many in the cricketing world. Former Indian cricketer and legendary spinner Harbhajan Singh expressed his astonishment, stating, “It was a bit of surprising news for me that suddenly Ravichandran Ashwin retires not only from Test cricket but from across the formats. A legend who has done well for India, taken many wickets, and won a lot of games for the team. I wish him all the luck for his new chapter.”
Harbhajan’s words echoed the thoughts of many who were taken aback by Ashwin’s decision to retire at the peak of his career.
Tributes from the Australian Cricketing Community
Ravichandran Ashwin’s contributions to cricket were not limited to Indian borders. His on-field battles with players like Australia’s Nathan Lyon garnered respect from the global cricketing community. Lyon, who has had several memorable encounters with Ashwin over the years, also paid tribute to the legendary spinner.
In an interview with Fox Cricket, Lyon said: “Nothing but respect for Ashwin. Just the way he has conducted himself on and off the field for a number of years now, and his skill set is incredible. We’ve had different opinions on different things, but to have those conversations with a bowler like Ashwin is amazing.”
Lyon’s words reflected the admiration and respect Ashwin earned from his peers, both on and off the field.
Ashwin’s Impact on Indian Cricket: A Reflection
Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement marks the conclusion of an extraordinary career that has seen him rise to the pinnacle of world cricket. With his vast knowledge of the game, adaptability, and unparalleled skill, Ashwin has become synonymous with Indian cricket. His impact is immeasurable not only in terms of the wickets he has taken but also in the way he has influenced the evolution of spin bowling in modern cricket.
From delivering crucial breakthroughs to becoming a dependable all-rounder for India, Ashwin’s contributions have played an integral role in the team’s success, particularly in the Test format. His ability to outthink batsmen, create pressure, and deliver match-winning performances has made him one of the most respected figures in the cricketing world.
Conclusion: A Legend’s Farewell
As Ravichandran Ashwin steps away from international cricket, he leaves behind a legacy that will be cherished for years to come. His retirement is a significant moment in Indian cricket, marking the end of an era for one of the game’s most talented and respected cricketers. Virat Kohli’s emotional tribute and the outpouring of support from Ashwin’s peers reflect the profound impact he has had on the sport.
The cricketing world will undoubtedly miss Ashwin’s magic with the ball, but his place in the annals of Indian cricket history is secure. We wish Ashwin all the best in his future endeavors, knowing that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of cricketers.
