Ravichandran Ashwin made the surprising decision to retire from international cricket midway through the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on Wednesday, December 18. With a career spanning 106 Tests, 537 wickets, and 3,503 runs, including six centuries and 14 fifties, Ashwin was regarded as one of the finest Test cricketers of his era. This announcement caught many fans and analysts off guard, leaving them questioning the reasons behind his shock decision.
Speculation about Ashwin’s retirement began circulating on Day 5 of the Gabba Test when he was seen sharing an emotional hug with Virat Kohli in the dressing room. Later, Ashwin accompanied Rohit Sharma to the post-match press conference, where he made the announcement and then left. Though unexpected, it appears Ashwin carefully considered this decision before making it, and he is set to return home on Thursday.
Here are some potential factors that may have influenced Ashwin’s call:
Ravindra Jadeja’s Performance at the Gabba
One key factor could be Ravindra Jadeja’s strong performance in the Gabba Test, which seems to have secured his spot in the Indian XI for the rest of the series. While Jadeja wasn’t particularly effective with the ball, his crucial 77 runs played a significant role in helping India avoid the follow-on and secure a draw. With upcoming Tests in Melbourne and Sydney, Jadeja appears to be the first choice, with Washington Sundar also in contention.
Washington Sundar’s Rise in the New Regime
Sunil Gavaskar hinted that Sundar may have overtaken Ashwin in the pecking order under the new coaching staff led by Gautam Gambhir. The Tamil Nadu all-rounder, who was brought in during the New Zealand series, impressed with both bat and ball. Even in Perth, India preferred Sundar over Ashwin, suggesting that Sundar may now fill Ashwin’s role in the team.
Emergence of Nitish Kumar Reddy
India’s ongoing search for a pace-bowling all-rounder was furthered by the rise of Nitish Kumar Reddy, who made a significant impact in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. At just 21 years old, Nitish has scored 179 runs in five innings and taken three wickets, proving his value as both a batsman and bowler. This development could mean India opts for a lineup with three spinners in home conditions and a pacer like Jasprit Bumrah, while Nitish’s pace and batting will be key in overseas conditions.
No Upcoming Home Series
Ashwin has been sensational in home conditions, claiming 383 of his 537 Test wickets at an average of 21.44, making him an automatic pick in India. However, with no home Test series scheduled after the 2025 England tour, Ashwin may have anticipated fewer opportunities ahead. With Jadeja being the natural choice for overseas conditions and Sundar also emerging as a strong contender, Ashwin might have felt that it was the right time to step away.
These factors likely played a role in Ashwin’s decision to retire, marking the end of a brilliant career in international cricket.
