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Kuljyot Singh

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Ravichandran Ashwin retirement

Ravichandran Ashwin retirement takes the centerstage amidst Border Gavaskar Trophy 3rd Test

Credits: BCCI/X

Ravichandran Ashwin has announced his immediate retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to a remarkable career. The decision came at the conclusion of the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Brisbane, marking a poignant moment for Indian cricket as one of its greatest match-winners bid farewell to the international stage. Ashwin's Test career is nothing short of legendary. With 537 wickets in 106 matches at an impressive average of 24, he finishes as India's second-highest wicket-taker in the longest format, trailing only the iconic Anil Kumble, who claimed 619 wickets in 132 Tests. Known for his sharp cricketing intellect and the ability to outfox even the best batters, Ashwin’s contributions were pivotal in shaping many of India’s famous Test victories, both at home and overseas.

All about the Ravichandran Ashwin retirement

Beyond the numbers, Ravichandran Ashwin redefined the role of an off-spinner in modern cricket. His ability to adapt to different conditions, innovate with variations, and perform under pressure made him one of the most versatile bowlers in the game. His exploits with the bat added another dimension to his all-round skills, making him a vital asset to the Indian team for over a decade. As he steps away from international cricket, Ashwin leaves behind a legacy of excellence, inspiration, and records that will stand the test of time. His retirement marks the end of an era, but his contributions to Indian cricket will forever be cherished by fans and teammates alike.

"This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats at the international level. I do feel there's a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer, but I would like to express that and probably showcase that in club-level cricket, but this will be the last day [for India]," said former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin.

"I've had a lot of fun. I must say I have created a lot of memories alongside Rohit [Sharma] and several of my other team-mates, even though I have lost some of them [to retirements] over the last few years. We're the last bunch of OGs, if we can say that, left out in the dressing room, and . I will be marking this as my date of having played at this level.

"Obviously there are a lot of people to thank, but I would be failing in my duties if I didn't thank the BCCI and the fellow team-mates. Several of them. I want to name a few of them. All the coaches who have been part of the journey. Most importantly, Rohit, Virat [Kohli], Ajinkya [Rahane], [Cheteshwar] Pujara, who have taken those splendid catches around the bat to give me the number of wickets I've managed to get over the years," he added.

Ravichandran Ashwin concludes his illustrious Test career as India’s second-highest wicket-taker, with 537 wickets in 106 matches at a remarkable average of 24. He stands second only to the legendary Anil Kumble, who claimed 619 wickets in 132 Tests. Ashwin’s achievements underscore his significance in Indian cricket, where he consistently delivered match-winning performances over more than a decade. However, his final outings in international cricket reflected a dip in form by his high standards. He featured in only one of the first three Tests in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, bowling 18 overs in the day-night Test in Adelaide and taking 1 for 53.

Prior to this, during the home series against New Zealand, which India lost 3-0, Ashwin managed nine wickets across three Tests at an average of 41.22, well below his usual dominance. Despite these recent challenges, Ashwin’s overall career remains a testament to his skill, adaptability, and cricketing intellect. His ability to consistently trouble batters across conditions and contribute as an all-rounder made him one of India’s most valuable players. His retirement marks the end of a glorious chapter in Indian cricket, leaving behind a legacy of brilliance and records that will inspire generations to come. 

Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement comes as India prepares for an away Test series in England, where he was not a regular fixture in the playing XI during overseas tours. By the time India’s next home Test season begins, Ashwin will be 39, making his decision to step away both timely and pragmatic. Ashwin’s career, however, is far more than just his incredible wicket tally of 537 in 106 Tests. He was a true all-rounder, contributing significantly with the bat. Scoring 3503 runs, including six centuries and 14 fifties, Ashwin joined an elite group of 11 cricketers who have achieved the double milestone of 3000 runs and 300 wickets in Test cricket. His consistency and match-winning performances earned him a record 11 Player-of-the-Series awards, a feat he shares with Sri Lankan legend Muthiah Muralitharan.

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