Ravichandran Ashwin, the renowned Indian cricketer, has confirmed his retirement from international cricket shortly after the conclusion of the Gabba Test. The announcement comes after growing speculation surrounding his future in the game, fuelled by a warm exchange between Ashwin and Virat Kohli during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
End Of An Era 💔
This is hurt breaking 💔Happy Retirement Legend R. Ashwin.
Bowling :
537 wickets
37 : 5 wicket haul
8 : 10 wickets haulMiss You Ash 😭😭#INDvAUS #Ashwin pic.twitter.com/PXFjfPXoZk
— P R A S A N G (@Prasang_) December 18, 2024
On Day 5 of the third Test, while waiting for the weather to clear, Ashwin and Kohli were seen sitting together, engaged in an intense conversation. Their lengthy discussion, followed by a heartfelt hug between the two, led to widespread rumors about Ashwin’s retirement plans.
𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝘼𝙨𝙝𝙬𝙞𝙣 🫡
A name synonymous with mastery, wizardry, brilliance, and innovation 👏👏
The ace spinner and #TeamIndia‘s invaluable all-rounder announces his retirement from international cricket.
Congratulations on a legendary career, @ashwinravi99 ❤️ pic.twitter.com/swSwcP3QXA
— BCCI (@BCCI) December 18, 2024
During the live broadcast, former cricketer Sunil Gavaskar hinted at the possibility of Ashwin retiring from Test cricket, pointing out that the off-spinner had not been a regular feature in overseas Test matches. Given India’s busy overseas schedule in the coming months, speculation about Ashwin’s future had been mounting. Broadcaster Mark Nicholas also raised the topic, asking Gavaskar about the unusual exchange between Ashwin and Kohli. With Ashwin’s confirmation of his retirement, the speculation has now been put to rest, marking the end of a distinguished chapter in Indian cricket.
Ravichandran Ashwin has retired from international cricket, ending his Test career as India’s second-highest wicket-taker with 537 wickets in 106 matches. Known for his all-round prowess, Ashwin also scored 3503 runs, including six centuries, and shares the record for 11 Player-of-the-Series awards with Muttiah Muralitharan. His illustrious career leaves an indelible mark on Indian cricket.
