Indian cricket legend Ravichandran Ashwin welcomed the New Year with a heartfelt post on his official Instagram account on Tuesday, December 31. The recently retired off-spinner shared a series of pictures alongside his wife, Prithi Narayanan, reflecting on his journey and the new chapter ahead.
Ashwin’s post included a meaningful quote: “A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality. ❤️❤️🤗 We embark on another journey around the sun🔥🔥. Happy 2025.” The message struck a chord with fans, symbolizing unity, ambition, and hope as the world welcomed the new year.
The 38-year-old stalwart retired from international cricket after India’s third Test match against Australia in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Ashwin’s decision marked the end of an illustrious career that spanned over a decade, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations.
A Record-Breaking Career
Ashwin’s contributions to Indian cricket are unparalleled. Regarded as one of the greatest off-spinners the country has ever produced, he amassed a staggering 765 wickets across all formats of the game, making him the highest wicket-taker in Indian cricket history. Beyond his exceptional bowling, Ashwin’s prowess with the bat shone through with six Test centuries and 14 half-centuries to his name.
Ashwin’s consistency and ability to perform in high-pressure situations were instrumental in many of India’s Test victories, especially on home soil. His strategic mindset, combined with sharp cricketing acumen, allowed him to outfox even the best batsmen.
Emotional Farewell
Ashwin’s retirement came as an emotional moment for Indian cricket fans. Tributes poured in from across the globe, with former cricketers, teammates, and fans acknowledging his invaluable contributions. His departure from the international stage leaves a void in India’s spin department, but his influence will continue to inspire the next generation of cricketers.
In his farewell message, Ashwin expressed gratitude for the unwavering support he received throughout his career, dedicating his achievements to his family, teammates, and fans. His bond with his wife Prithi Narayanan was evident in the New Year post, underscoring the importance of family in his journey to success.
The Road Ahead
While Ashwin may have retired from international cricket, his involvement in the sport is far from over. The cricketing world eagerly anticipates his contributions as a mentor, commentator, or coach, as his deep understanding of the game is expected to shape future talents.
As India continues its quest in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy without their legendary spinner, Ashwin’s presence will undoubtedly be missed. However, his legacy stands tall – a testament to perseverance, dedication, and excellence.
As Ashwin steps into 2025, his message of dreaming together serves as an inspiration, not just for cricket enthusiasts but for anyone chasing their goals. The sun may have set on his playing career, but for Ashwin, the journey has just begun.
