Ravi Ashwin retirement: Was Ravichandran Ashwin actually humiliated?

On Thursday, Ravichandran Ashwin addressed the remarks made by his father regarding his sudden decision to retire from international cricket. Ashwin’s father had recently alleged that the ace spinner’s retirement was influenced by the humiliating treatment he faced, sparking widespread discussions in the cricketing world. Ashwin, known for his composure both on and off the field, took the opportunity to clarify his perspective on the matter. While he acknowledged his father’s concerns, Ashwin emphasized that his decision to step away from the game was based on personal reflections and practical considerations rather than any external factors or treatment. In his statement, Ashwin expressed gratitude for his family’s unwavering support throughout his illustrious career. He also noted that such sentiments from his father stemmed from a place of love and concern for his well-being, especially after years of relentless commitment to the sport.

Is there more to Ravichandran Ashwin retirement?

The cricketer’s comments helped shift the narrative, focusing instead on his remarkable journey and contributions to Indian cricket. With 537 Test wickets to his name and numerous match-winning performances, Ashwin’s legacy remains untouched by external controversies. He reiterated his respect for the Indian team and management, underscoring that his retirement was a personal milestone rather than a reaction to any alleged mistreatment. Ashwin’s response showcased his characteristic grace and reinforced the notion that his departure was a calculated step, marking the conclusion of an extraordinary chapter in Indian cricket history.

“My dad isn’t media trained, dey father enna da ithelaam. I never thought you would follow this rich tradition of “dad statements”. Request you all to forgive him and leave him alone,” the off spinner posted on X.

Earlier on Thursday, Ashwin’s father had said in an interview with CNN News18, “The sudden change – retirement – gave us really kind of a shock. At the same time, we were expecting it because humiliation was going on. How long he can tolerate all those things? Probably, he would have decided on his own.”

My dad isn’t media trained, dey father enna da ithelaam 😂😂.

I never thought you would follow this rich tradition of “dad statements” .🤣

Request you all to forgive him and leave him alone 🙏 https://t.co/Y1GFEwJsVc

— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) December 19, 2024

Ravichandran Ashwin’s unexpected retirement from international cricket has sent shockwaves through the cricketing fraternity. Renowned for his astute cricketing mind and profound understanding of the game, Ashwin was far more than a spinner; he was a true game-changer. His illustrious career reflected brilliance, adaptability, and resilience, consistently providing India with dynamism and balance in the Test format. Alongside Ravindra Jadeja, Ashwin forged a lethal partnership that made India nearly invincible at home, with visiting teams dreading the spin duo's dominance.

However, the indomitable aura surrounding Ashwin began to waver during a disheartening Test series against New Zealand in November. On home soil, where India had long reigned supreme, New Zealand stunned everyone by pulling off a 3-0 clean sweep. The series exposed vulnerabilities in India’s Test dominance, with Ashwin’s form coming under particular scrutiny. Over three Tests, the veteran managed only nine wickets at an unimpressive average of 41.22, failing to secure a single five-wicket haul. Compounding the situation was Washington Sundar’s standout performance during the same series. Sundar, playing just two matches, claimed 16 wickets while contributing valuable runs with the bat, solidifying his place as a rising star. In contrast, Ashwin’s struggles raised questions about his role and future in the team.

Tough decisions were inevitable as India strategized for a new era, and Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement seems to align with this vision. A player of Ashwin’s caliber, who thrived on being indispensable, likely recognized the changing dynamics within the team. His abrupt exit reflects a practical approach as India seeks to balance the wisdom of experience with the promise of its next generation of players. While the Border Gavaskar Trophy continues, it is difficult to predict the extent of changes to follow, but Ashwin’s departure signals a broader shift in strategy. The move appears to be part of long-term planning, as the team transitions toward a future that may phase out some of its seasoned veterans. Though sudden, Ashwin’s retirement underscores the delicate balancing act between honoring past contributions and preparing for the challenges ahead in Indian cricket.

Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket on Wednesday, shortly after the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy ended in a draw. His decision, taken in the middle of the series with two Tests still to be played, raised eyebrows, particularly as the conditions in the fifth Test were expected to favor spinners. In the ongoing series in Australia, Ashwin featured in just one of the three Tests, but his overall career remains illustrious. He departs the Indian Test team as the country’s second-highest wicket-taker in the format, with 537 dismissals, trailing only Anil Kumble’s remarkable tally of 619 wickets.

Returning to Chennai on Thursday, Ashwin addressed his fans with a message, emphasizing that while his international career has ended, his journey in cricket is far from over. Speaking to the media, the legendary spinner confirmed that he will continue to play in the Indian Premier League, representing the Chennai Super Kings in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) season.

“I am going to play for CSK. Don’t be surprised if I try and aspire to play for as long as I can. I don’t think Ashwin the cricketer is done, I think Ashwin the Indian cricketer has probably called it time. That’s it,” Ashwin stated.