Indian cricket’s legendary off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin on Wednesday (December 18) made a decision that shook the entire cricket world at the Gabba ground in Brisbane.
By announcing his retirement from international cricket suddenly and without any prior notice, Ashwin put a full stop to his career.
After playing only the second Test on the ongoing Australia tour, he took this big decision, which was going to be a boundary for anyone.
Reason behind Ashwin’s retirement
According to reports, Ashwin’s retirement shocked everyone in the Indian dressing room. He went to each player and explained his decision.
Soon after the match, which was declared a draw due to persistent rain in Brisbane, Ashwin made his crucial decision.
“It will be my last day as an Indian cricketer. There is still something left in me as a cricketer but I would like to exploit that in domestic and club level cricket. “
Rohit Sharma on Ashwin’s retirement
Rohit Sharma shared his thoughts on Ashwin’s retirement. “When I reached Perth, we talked about it and I somehow convinced him to stay back for the pink-ball Test match. They felt that if I am not needed in the series at this point of time, it would be better for me to bid adieu to the game. “
According to an Indian Express report, Ashwin had not made any prior plans to retire before catching the flight to Perth. However, he had given hints about retirement to his family due to a knee injury. His family was with him and asked him to reconsider his decision.
Ashwin’s contribution to cricket
“I had a lot of fun with Rohit and many of my teammates and made a lot of memories. “
His career tally of 537 wickets and 3503 runs in 106 Tests makes him one of India’s greatest spinners.
Ashwin thanks the team
Ashwin expressed his gratitude to many great players in his career. “I have so many people to thank. If I don’t thank the BCCI and my teammates, I will be failing in my duties. “
He especially thanked Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane, who played an important role in his career.
“Most importantly Rohit, Virat and Ajinkya, who have taken so many catches with the bat and given so many wickets to the men that I have managed over so many years. This game has given me a lot. “
BCCI comments on Ashwin’s retirement
A source close to the BCCI commented on Ashwin’s retirement: “There was no request from the selection committee. Ashwin is a legend of Indian cricket and he has the right to take his own decision. “
