Ravichandran Ashwin Announces Retirement: The cricketing world was left stunned on Wednesday, December 18, as he announced his international retirement. The announcement came moments after the drawn Gabba Test in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). The series, currently tied at 1-1, has already delivered its share of thrills, but Ashwin’s decision adds an emotional layer to the drama.
A Legendary Career Comes to an End
Ashwin retires as one of the greatest cricketers India has ever produced. His contributions, especially in Test cricket, have been monumental.
Key Highlights of Ravichandran Ashwin’s Career:
- Test Wickets:
- 537 wickets in 106 matches (2nd highest for India, behind Anil Kumble).
- 7th highest wicket-taker in Test history.
- Five-Wicket Hauls:
- 37 five-wicket hauls, tied with Shane Warne and only behind Muttiah Muralitharan (67).
- Unique Record: Most dismissals of left-handers in Test cricket.
- Batting Achievements:
- Scored over 3,500 Test runs, including 6 centuries.
- ODI and T20I Contributions:
- 156 wickets in 116 ODIs.
- 72 wickets in 65 T20Is (once the highest for India).
Awards and Recognition: Ravichandran Ashwin Announces Retirement
Ashwin’s excellence earned him 11 Player of the Series awards in Test cricket, equaling the legendary Muttiah Muralitharan’s record.
Format | Matches | Wickets | Runs | Centuries |
---|---|---|---|---|
Tests | 106 | 537 | 3,500+ | 6 |
ODIs | 116 | 156 | 707 | 0 |
T20Is | 65 | 72 | 184 | 0 |
Read also: Ravichandran Ashwin: Joining the Elite 700 Wickets Club
An Emotional Farewell: Ravichandran Ashwin
Ashwin announced his decision during a press conference alongside captain Rohit Sharma, saying, “Today will be the last day for me as an India cricketer.” He declined questions and left the stage after his brief statement.
Supporting Ashwin’s decision, Rohit Sharma remarked, “He was very sure of his choice. We should stand by what he wants.”
In the dressing room, Ashwin shared an emotional moment with Virat Kohli, reflecting on the deep camaraderie and respect he enjoyed among his teammates.
The Legacy Lives On
Ravichandran Ashwin leaves an unparalleled legacy, inspiring the next generation of Indian cricketers. His remarkable achievements as an all-rounder ensure he will be remembered as one of the finest ever to play the game.
FAQs
Why did Ravichandran Ashwin retire now?
Ashwin chose to retire after the Gabba Test to end his career on a high note during the fiercely competitive Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Where does Ashwin rank among all-time greats?
Ashwin’s 537 Test wickets place him 7th on the all-time list, solidifying his status as a legend.
What records did Ashwin achieve?
Ashwin holds records like the most dismissals of left-handers and 37 five-wicket hauls in Tests.
Will Ashwin continue in domestic cricket?
As of now, Ashwin has not announced any plans to continue playing domestically.
Who is India’s highest wicket-taker in Tests?
Anil Kumble holds the record with 619 wickets, followed by Ashwin with 537.
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