In a move that sent shock waves across the cricketing world, Ravichandran AshwinOne of India’s most famous cricketers, announced his retirement from international cricket On December 18. The timing of the decision during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia surprised everyone.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s shock retirement: The legend bids farewell
Ashwin’s illustrious career spanned 106 Test matches, during which he took 537 wickets at an impressive average of 24.01 and contributed significantly with the bat, scoring 3,503 runs, including six centuries and 14 fifties. His dual contributions as fielder and batter made him a pillar of the Indian Test side and his sudden exit left fans and cricket experts struggling with mixed emotions.
The first signs of Ashwin’s retirement emerged on the fifth day of the Gabba Test. seen hugging Virat Kohli in an emotional moment in the locker room. The speculation grew stronger when he joined Rohit Sharma At the post-match press conference, he officially announced his retirement just before leaving the field. While the timing caught many off guard, Ashwin’s decision seems well thought out. He is set to return to India on Thursday, ending a career that left an indelible mark on the sport.
A record-breaking career for India was cut short
Ashwin retired as the second highest wicket-taker in India’s Test cricket, behind only the legendary cricketer Anil Kumble. Kubl’s record of 619 runs in 132 matches was not on Ashwin’s mind, but the veteran spinner opted to score just 82 runs. Ashwin’s exceptional home record was a testament to his dominance in spin-friendly conditions, with 383 of his 537 wickets coming on Indian soil at a phenomenal average of 21.44. However, with India’s next home Test series slated for August 2025, the long wait for meaningful opportunities on familiar turf could influence his decision to retire.
Ashwin leaves an incalculable legacy. His tactical acumen, ability to outsprint and his contributions in both batting and bowling made him one of the most accomplished players of his era. While his sudden retirement left his fans longing for more, Ashwin’s achievements will continue to inspire young cricketers who aim to follow in his footsteps.
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3 main factors behind Ashwin’s sudden retirement decision
1. Limited opportunities in external tests
Ashwin’s presence in overseas Test matches has been sporadic in recent years, with the team management often favoring strong attacks in overseas conditions. In the ongoing BGT, Ashwin played only the second Test in Adelaide and was not considered for the first or third matches. This pattern of declining participation in overseas Tests could frustrate the spinner and prompt him to call time on his career. For most of the past few years, Ravindra Jadeja has emerged as the team’s preferred player not only on the basis of bowling, but also in terms of batting and fielding, where Jadeja is potentially miles ahead of Ashwin.
2. Long gap before meaningful participation
India’s upcoming Test schedule leaves little room for Ashwin’s strengths to shine. The team won the right World Test Championship (WTC) Finalwill be planned to take place in England in June of the following year, another series followed in England. Ashwin’s next big role at home won’t come until October 2025, during a series against West India. Nearly a year before he could make a significant contribution, Ashwin may have thought it was an opportune moment to retire and explore other avenues.
3. Focus on personal and professional priorities
At 38, Ashwin may consider his options and decide to prioritize his personal life and other professional pursuits. A consistent performer for over a decade, the demands of international cricket, coupled with long tours and limited breaks, could have contributed to his decision to walk away from the game.
With India’s evolving Test team composition, Ashwin can expect reduced opportunities even in the upcoming series. the rise of young spinners in the form Washington Sundarahead of Ashwin in the first game and the team’s increased reliance on fast bowlers in overseas conditions may cast doubt on his future role, leading to his decision to retire while still at the top of his game.
