In an emotional announcement, off-spinner R. Ashwin confirmed his retirement from all formats of international cricket on Wednesday, December 18. The 37-year-old made this decision public during a press conference with captain Rohit Sharma at the Gabba in Brisbane, following the conclusion of the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which ended in a draw.
Ashwin revealed that this would be his final day as an Indian cricketer at the international level. He expressed his desire to continue playing cricket at the club level, citing that he still feels there is some cricket left in him. He also took a moment to reflect on his career and the memories he created alongside his teammates.“
This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats of the game at the international level. I do feel there is a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer, and I would like to showcase that in club-level cricket. It’s been an incredible journey, and I have had a lot of fun,” Ashwin said.
The 37-year-old spinner thanked the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and his teammates, including Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, and Cheteshwar Pujara, for their support throughout his career. He particularly highlighted their contributions, especially Pujara and others in the slips, who helped him achieve many of his wickets.
Ashwin’s decision to retire comes after the third Test, with the Indian captain Rohit Sharma confirming that Ashwin would not stay with the team for the remainder of the series and would return to India on Thursday, December 19.
A Stellar Career in Test Cricket
R. Ashwin leaves behind a remarkable legacy, finishing his career with 537 wickets in 106 Test matches. He was an integral part of India’s 2011 ODI World Cup-winning squad and became one of the most successful spinners in the history of Test cricket.
Known for his sharp cricketing intellect, Ashwin’s ability to outthink batsmen with his variations, flight, and precision made him a dominant force in world cricket. His career was defined by his success in challenging conditions, particularly on Indian soil, where his skills helped India clinch numerous Test victories, including several memorable series wins against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Ashwin’s achievements with the bat further cemented his place as one of the all-time greats. With six Test centuries to his name, he often bailed India out of difficult situations with vital runs, showcasing his versatility and contribution as an all-rounder.
His stellar 2016 season earned him the prestigious ICC Cricketer of the Year and ICC Test Cricketer of the Year awards, making him the third Indian to win the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy. Ashwin also reached the No. 1 spot in the ICC Test bowling rankings multiple times, solidifying his place among the world’s elite spinners.
A Fitting Farewell
As news of Ashwin’s retirement spread, speculations had already begun following a touching moment during a rain break in the Gabba dressing room, where Ashwin was seen embracing former captain Virat Kohli. The heartfelt exchange led to widespread rumors, which Ashwin put to rest by confirming his retirement immediately after the Test match.
In his farewell speech, Ashwin also expressed gratitude towards the Australian cricket team for being fierce competitors throughout his career. “A big thank you to the Australian cricket team. They have been very fierce competitors. I’ve enjoyed playing alongside them,” he said, reflecting on the tough battles he faced with Australia over the years.
Ashwin’s retirement marks the end of an era for Indian cricket, but his legacy, both with the ball and the bat, will continue to inspire future generations of cricketers.
