Rohit Sharma discloses a secret on Ravichandran Ashwin retirement

The cricketing world was left in shock as Indian all-rounder and off-spin legend Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket. The 38-year-old, who served Indian cricket with distinction for 14 years, made the unexpected decision following the Gabba Test in Brisbane. In response to Ashwin’s announcement, several cricketers shared their thoughts and reactions, reflecting on the incredible legacy of one of India’s finest players. Team India skipper Rohit Sharma also weighed in on the events leading to Ashwin’s retirement. Speaking during a press interaction, Rohit shed light on the circumstances that prompted the legendary spinner to call time on his illustrious career. Rohit emphasized Ashwin’s immense contribution to Indian cricket and revealed how the decision was influenced by both personal and professional factors.

Interestingly, Rohit disclosed that Ashwin had initially intended to retire before the series began. However, the skipper convinced the Chennai-based all-rounder to stay on for the Pink Ball Test in Adelaide, where Ashwin’s experience and skill were deemed crucial for the team’s plans. Rohit’s persuasive efforts ensured that Ashwin’s presence continued to inspire the squad through the challenging series. Although the Gabba Test ended in a draw, keeping the series level at 1-1, Ashwin’s retirement announcement overshadowed the result, marking the end of an era in Indian cricket. His legacy as a spinner, all-rounder, and tactical genius will be remembered fondly by teammates, fans, and cricket enthusiasts worldwide.

“Speaking about Ash (Ravichandran Ashwin), he was very very sure about this decision. I heard this when I came to Perth. Obviously, I was not there for the first three or four days of the Test match, but this was on his mind since then. There are obviously a lot of things that went behind it; I'm pretty sure, Ash, when he went in position, will be able to answer that," said Indian captain Rohit Sharma during the press conference after the Gabba Test.

“He understands what the team is thinking. He understands what kind of combinations we are thinking of. When we came here as well, we were not sure about which spinner was going to play. We just wanted to assess and see what kind of conditions we get in front of us, But yeah, when I arrived in Perth, this was a chat we had, and I somehow convinced him to stay for that pink ball Test," he added. 

Ravichandran Ashwin, the veteran all-rounder from Chennai, Tamil Nadu, bid farewell to international cricket after an illustrious career spanning 14 years. Ashwin retired with an impressive tally of 537 wickets in 106 Test matches, cementing his place among India’s greatest cricketers. He finishes as the second-highest wicket-taker for India in Test cricket, trailing only the legendary leg-spinner Anil Kumble, who claimed 619 wickets in his career.

Ashwin’s remarkable achievements extend beyond national records. He ranks as the seventh-highest wicket-taker in the history of Test cricket, a testament to his exceptional skill and consistency across formats and conditions. Known for his sharp cricketing mind, variations, and adaptability, Ashwin played a pivotal role in many of India’s memorable Test victories.