Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India’s finest cricketers, has announced his retirement from international cricket, closing the chapter on a remarkable 14-year career. Known for his skillful off-spin bowling and his ability to contribute with the bat, Ashwin’s legacy is etched in the annals of cricket history. With 765 international wickets to his name, including 537 wickets in 106 Test matches, he ranks as India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Tests, trailing only the legendary Anil Kumble.
As Ashwin bids farewell to international cricket, let’s revisit some of his best performances that made him a household name. From crucial wickets to match-defining contributions, Ashwin’s journey has been filled with historic moments. Here are a few key highlights of his illustrious career:
1. 7/59 Against New Zealand (2016 – Test)
In the 2016 Test series against New Zealand, Ravichandran Ashwin showcased his dominance in the spin-friendly conditions of Indore. After a solid batting performance from Virat Kohli, Cheteshwar Pujara, and Ajinkya Rahane, Ashwin took control with the ball. He claimed 6/81 in the first innings and followed it up with an outstanding 7/59 in the second innings. India won the match by a massive 321 runs, and Ashwin finished the series with an incredible 27 wickets in three games, reaffirming his status as one of the best spinners in world cricket.
2. 2/52 Against Australia in 2011 ODI World Cup Quarterfinal
Ravichandran Ashwin made a major impact in India’s victorious 2011 ODI World Cup campaign. Though he featured in only two matches, his performance against Australia in the quarterfinal was crucial. Ashwin was entrusted with the new ball and struck early by dismissing Shane Watson. He later took the prized scalp of Australian captain Ricky Ponting for a brilliant 140. Ashwin’s pressure on the Australian batting lineup was significant, even though he claimed just two wickets, cementing his reputation as a big-match player.
3. 2/15 in 2013 Champions Trophy Final vs England
The 2013 ICC Champions Trophy final at Lord’s saw Ashwin’s tactical brilliance shine through. With only 129 runs on the board in a rain-impacted match, Ashwin’s early breakthroughs put England on the back foot. His excellent figures of 2/15 in his first spell, including the wickets of Jonathan Trott and Joe Root, helped India gain control of the game. In a tense final over, Ashwin held his nerve, conceding just eight runs and sealing India’s five-run victory. This performance was instrumental in India’s first-ever Champions Trophy win.
4. 39 Against Australia – Sydney Test, 2021*
Perhaps one of Ashwin’s most iconic moments came during India’s historic 2021 Test tour of Australia. Chasing 407 runs in the final innings of the Sydney Test, India was in dire straits after the early dismissal of captain Ajinkya Rahane. However, Ashwin’s unwavering resolve, despite suffering from a severe back injury, made all the difference. Alongside Hanuma Vihari, Ashwin batted for an excruciating 128 balls, scoring 39* and playing a vital role in India’s remarkable resistance. Together, they survived 259 balls, and their unbeaten 62-run partnership saved the Test, ensuring a memorable draw in one of India’s greatest Test matches.
5. 1 Against Pakistan – T20 World Cup, 2022*
Ravichandran Ashwin’s ability to rise to the occasion was on full display during the 2022 T20 World Cup. In a high-pressure match against Pakistan, India needed two runs off the final ball. With Dinesh Karthik being dismissed earlier in the over, Ashwin walked out to face Mohammad Nawaz. Ashwin’s calmness under pressure was remarkable as he left a wide delivery before effortlessly lofting the ball over mid-off to secure India’s victory. This single ball not only gave India the win but also solidified Ashwin’s status as a dependable match-winner in the T20 format.
Conclusion: A Legacy Beyond Numbers
Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement marks the end of an era for Indian cricket. Over his 14-year career, he has not only amassed wickets but has also been a key performer in some of the most memorable matches in Indian cricket history. Whether it was his resilience in the 2021 Sydney Test, his composure in the 2011 World Cup, or his tactical brilliance in limited-overs cricket, Ashwin’s contributions were integral to India’s success across all formats.
As Ashwin hangs up his boots, his legacy will be remembered for his all-around skills, unmatched cricketing intellect, and ability to perform under pressure. Ravichandran Ashwin is truly a legend of Indian cricket, and his remarkable career will inspire generations of cricketers to come.
