The cricketing world was left stunned when R Ashwin, India’s greatest off-spinner, announced his retirement from international cricket during a press conference at The Gabba. The decision came after India’s Test series match, catching fans, teammates, and experts off guard.
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A Sudden Announcement
Amid the drizzle and a quiet post-match atmosphere, Ashwin dropped the bombshell with captain Rohit Sharma by his side. “This will be my last year as an Indian cricketer in all formats at the international level,” he said. Despite admitting that he still had some cricket left in him, Ashwin expressed his desire to continue playing at the club level.
His announcement marked the end of a stellar 15-year international career during which he redefined the role of a spinner. Known for his sharp intellect and meticulous planning, the 38-year-old remained composed as he thanked the BCCI, his teammates, and coaches for their unwavering support.
Tributes to Teammates and Coaches
Ashwin reserved special gratitude for the “last bunch of OGs” – Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, and Cheteshwar Pujara – for their pivotal role in his career. He credited their catching brilliance in close-in positions for many of his wickets. His humor remained intact as he reflected on his journey with humility and wit.
Behind the Scenes of the Decision
Ashwin revealed that he had made up his mind during the first Test in Perth. Although Jasprit Bumrah captained that game, Ashwin chose to share the news with Rohit upon his arrival. It took significant persuasion from Rohit to convince him to stay for the pink-ball Test in Adelaide.
“I heard this when I came to Perth,” Rohit said. “This was in his mind since then, but I somehow convinced him to stay for the Adelaide fixture.”
The Final Performance
Ashwin’s final appearance was marked by a modest performance with both bat and ball. He bowled 18 overs, taking one wicket, and contributed a handy knock in the first innings. Yet, few would have guessed this was his last outing in an Indian jersey.
A Legacy Beyond Numbers
Ashwin’s retirement isn’t just the conclusion of a career but the end of an era for Indian cricket. From his iconic spells to his game-changing batting performances, Ashwin leaves behind a legacy that transcends numbers.
As the Indian cricket team continues its journey, Ashwin’s absence will undoubtedly be felt. However, his contributions, memories, and unmatched cricketing intellect will inspire generations to come.