Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India’s most celebrated spinners, announced his retirement from international cricket following the third Test against Australia in Brisbane on December 18. Ashwin’s illustrious career, spanning over 12 years, saw him emerge as a cornerstone of India’s Test dominance, particularly in home conditions. With 712 international wickets to his name, Ashwin retired as India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, behind only Anil Kumble.
Table of Contents
Tanush Kotian Named as Replacement
In the wake of Ashwin’s retirement, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced Tanush Kotian, a promising 26-year-old spin all-rounder from Mumbai, as his replacement for the ongoing Border Gavaskar Trophy. Kotian, who has not yet made his international debut, will join the Indian squad in Australia ahead of the final two Tests.
Kotian’s Credentials
- First-Class Matches: 33
- Wickets: 101
- Runs: 1525 (with two centuries)
- T20 Matches: 33 (33 wickets)
- List A Matches: 20 (20 wickets)
Kotian recently impressed in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, taking two wickets and scoring an unbeaten 39 against Hyderabad. He also has fond memories of the Melbourne Cricket Ground, where he scored 44 runs at No. 8 during an India A tour.
Selection Insights
According to a senior BCCI official, Kotian has been added as a precautionary measure and will only play if injuries affect the current spin options, Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja. Originally, Axar Patel was considered for the position, but he opted out due to family commitments.
Ashwin’s Promise and Legacy
In a tribute video shared by the BCCI, Ashwin reflected on a pivotal moment in his career—India’s 2012 Test series loss to England at home. During that series, Ashwin faced criticism for his performances, which included 14 wickets at an average of 52.64. He resolved to never allow India to lose a home series again.
“I made myself a promise in 2012. We lost a tricky series against England, and I told myself that we are not going to lose another one. Ever,” Ashwin said in the video.
This resolve laid the foundation for Ashwin’s unmatched success in home conditions, where he spearheaded India’s dominance in Test cricket for over a decade.
Heartfelt Farewell
The cricketing fraternity, including fans and players, bid an emotional farewell to Ashwin, acknowledging his immense contributions. The BCCI’s tribute highlighted his role as a spinner, tactician, and key figure in India’s golden era of Test cricket.
As India prepares for the final two Tests of the Border Gavaskar Trophy, the inclusion of Tanush Kotian marks the beginning of a new chapter in Indian cricket, while Ashwin’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of cricketers.