Ravichandran Ashwin Announces Sudden Retirement from International Cricket
India’s veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has unexpectedly announced his retirement from international cricket. The 38-year-old cricketer, known for his remarkable achievements, revealed his decision during a press conference after the Gabba Test. Accompanied by captain Rohit Sharma, Ashwin made the announcement and bid farewell to international cricket. Before the announcement, he was seen sharing an emotional moment with Virat Kohli in the dressing room, where Kohli hugged him. Ashwin, a key player in India’s spin attack, was also part of the team for the Adelaide Day-Night Test.
A Career Filled with Records
Ashwin has made a significant mark in cricket with his outstanding performances. He ranks seventh among the highest wicket-takers in Test cricket, with 537 wickets in 106 matches. His best bowling figures are 7/59, with an impressive average of 24.00 and a strike rate of 50.73. Ashwin is India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Tests after Anil Kumble, who has 619 wickets. His sudden retirement during the Australian tour has come as a surprise, given his dominance in spin bowling, especially on Indian soil.
Second-Highest Five-Wicket Hauls for India
Ashwin has taken 37 five-wicket hauls in Test cricket, the highest by an Indian bowler. He surpasses Anil Kumble, who achieved this feat 35 times. Globally, Ashwin is tied with Shane Warne in second place, while Muttiah Muralitharan leads with 67 five-wicket hauls.
Contributions Beyond Bowling
Ashwin has also proven his prowess with the bat. In 106 Tests, he has scored 3,503 runs at an average of 25.75, including six centuries and 14 half-centuries. His highest score in Tests is 124 runs. Additionally, he has played 116 ODIs and 65 T20Is, taking 156 and 72 wickets, respectively. Despite not achieving five-wicket hauls in limited-overs cricket, his contributions have been significant.
IPL and Domestic Cricket
Ashwin, who debuted in international cricket in an ODI against Sri Lanka in 2010, will now focus on playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL). A consistent performer for Chennai Super Kings, he will continue to showcase his skills in domestic tournaments.
A Legacy to Remember
Ashwin’s career includes being part of India’s victorious squads in the 2011 ODI World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy. He has also won the Player of the Series award 11 times in Test cricket, a record he shares with Muralitharan. Although his involvement in ODIs and T20Is became sporadic in recent years, Ashwin’s contributions have left an indelible mark on Indian cricket.
This legendary spinner, who has been an integral part of India’s cricketing success, will now step away from the international stage, leaving behind a legacy of excellence.
