Indian cricket fans were met with a wave of emotions on December 18, 2024, as star all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket. His decision came after the conclusion of the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) between India and Australia at the iconic Gabba in Brisbane. The announcement marked the end of a glorious chapter for one of India’s finest off-spinners and all-rounders.
Ashwin, known for his strategic brilliance, remarkable bowling prowess, and invaluable contributions to the bat, leaves behind a legacy etched in the annals of Indian cricket. In a touching gesture, the Indian cricket team’s official Instagram account paid tribute to Ashwin with a heartwarming video, showing the lighter side of the legendary cricketer as he shared some fun moments with teammates and support staff.
A Farewell with Laughter and Camaraderie
The video shared by the Indian cricket team captures the essence of Ashwin’s humility, humor, and the respect he garnered over the years. Instead of somber farewells and tearful goodbyes, Ashwin chose to celebrate his retirement with laughter and a display of genuine camaraderie. In an indoor net session, the off-spinner invited members of the support staff to have a go at bowling, making sure everyone participated in his farewell in a fun and light-hearted manner.
Throughout the session, Ashwin could be heard offering tips and encouragement. Whether it was suggesting to “bowl from the corner” or reminding them to “finish the action,” Ashwin brought his trademark attention to detail even to this playful session. The room echoed with laughter and cheers as members of the support staff, many of whom are rarely in the spotlight, got their moment to shine — and stumble — under Ashwin’s guidance.
This celebration was more than just a fun exercise; it showcased Ashwin’s deep respect for the behind-the-scenes heroes who contribute tirelessly to the team’s success. The caption accompanying the video summed up the sentiment perfectly:
“The countless battles on the field will always be memorable ❤️, but it’s moments like these that Ashwin will cherish from his international career 😃👌. Watch @rashwin99 supporting his cherished support staff 🫶 #TeamIndia | #ThankYouAshwin.”
Ashwin’s Remarkable Career: A Legacy to Remember
Ashwin’s retirement marks the conclusion of an extraordinary international career spanning over a decade. Known for his exceptional skill and sharp cricketing mind, Ashwin finishes as one of India’s most successful bowlers. He took 537 wickets in 106 Tests, making him India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, behind the legendary Anil Kumble, who claimed 619 wickets. Across all formats, Ashwin’s career tally stands at 765 wickets in 287 matches.
Key Highlights of Ashwin’s Career:
- A Master of Spin: Ashwin’s ability to outthink batsmen with his variations and tactical acumen made him a nightmare for even the best opponents.
- All-Round Contributions: Besides his bowling, Ashwin contributed significantly with the bat, scoring over 3,000 Test runs with five centuries to his name.
- Historic Achievements: Ashwin played a crucial role in several of India’s historic victories, including the 2021 Test series win in Australia, where his performance with both bat and ball helped India retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
- Adaptability and Evolution: Throughout his career, Ashwin continuously adapted his game, adding new deliveries to his arsenal and refining his technique to stay effective in different conditions.
Respect and Support from Teammates
Ashwin’s retirement announcement was met with an outpouring of respect and admiration from teammates, cricket legends, and fans alike. Rohit Sharma, the Indian captain, praised Ashwin’s decision and emphasized the importance of respecting a player’s personal choice.
Rohit remarked, “Some decisions are deeply personal, and I don’t think they should be questioned too much. A player like Ashwin, who has been with us for so many years, deserves the freedom to make such choices, and as teammates, we must respect that.”
This sentiment reflects the deep bond and mutual respect that Ashwin fostered within the team. His ability to balance competitiveness with camaraderie was a hallmark of his leadership both on and off the field.
A Glimpse into Ashwin’s Future
While Ashwin is stepping away from international cricket, fans may not have to wait long to see him in a new role. Rohit Sharma jokingly hinted that Ashwin might soon be seen as part of the cricket broadcasting team. Given Ashwin’s analytical mind, his insightful commentary on social media, and his knack for explaining complex cricketing strategies, a career in broadcasting or coaching seems like a natural progression.
Ashwin has also recently reunited with his former IPL team, Chennai Super Kings, indicating that he may continue to play franchise cricket for a while. His association with CSK is sure to bring joy to his home fans, who will get the chance to cheer him on in familiar yellow colors.
Conclusion: More Than Just a Cricketer
Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement is not just the end of an illustrious cricketing career but the celebration of a player who embodied skill, intelligence, and humility. His legacy will be remembered not only for his achievements on the field but also for the countless moments of sportsmanship, wit, and camaraderie he shared with his teammates and support staff.
As Ashwin bids farewell to the international stage, the memories of his battles, victories, and joyful moments will remain etched in the hearts of cricket fans. The Indian cricket team’s heartwarming video serves as a beautiful reminder that the essence of the game lies not just in numbers and records, but in the relationships, respect, and joy that cricket fosters.
