Off-spinner R Ashwin announced his retirement from all formats of international cricket on Wednesday, December 18. The off-spinner confirmed the decision, saying it was his last day as an Indian cricketer while addressing the press conference with captain Rohit Sharma at the Gabba in Brisbane.
Ashwin's announcement came after the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy ended in a draw. Captain Rohit Sharma confirmed that R Ashwin would not stay with the team for the remainder of the series and would head back to India on Thursday, December 19.
"This will be my last day as an Indian cricket in all formats of the game at the international level. I do feel there is a bit of punch left in me in a cricketer. I would like to showcase that in club-level cricket. So this will be my last day. I have had a lot of fun. I must say I've created a lot of memories alongside Rohitt and several of my teammates," Ashwin said at the press conference.
"Obviously, there are a lot of people to thank. But, I would be failing in my duty if I didn't thank the BCCI and the rest of my teammates. I want to name a few of them and all the coaches -- Rohit, Virat, Ajinkya and Pujara who have taken all those catches in the slips to help me get those wickets."
Ashwin finishes his career with 537 wickets in 106 Tests. Ashwin was part of the ODI World Cup-winning team in 2011.
Ashwin also thanked the Australian cricket team for being fierce competitors over the years.
"Also a big thank you to the Australian cricket team. They have been very fierce competitors. I have enjoyed playing alongside them.
"I won't be taking any questions, but certainly, it's a very emotional moment."
Speculation about his retirement was rife after he was seen hugging former captain Virat Kohli in the dressing room at Gabba during a rain interruption on Wednesday. Ashwin and Kohli had an intense chat in the dressing room, leading to rumours on social media.
Ashwin ensured the rumours did not stay for long as he confirmed the call right after the third Test ended in a draw.
Known for his sharp cricketing acumen, Ashwin debuted in 2011 against the West Indies and quickly established himself as a key figure in India's Test lineup.
Ashwin's ability to outthink batsmen with his variations, flight, and precision has made him a formidable off-spinner. With over 100 Test matches to his name, he has taken 537 wickets at an impressive average, solidifying his status as one of the greatest spinners in the history of cricket. His knack for striking on challenging surfaces and delivering in high-pressure situations has been instrumental in India's numerous Test victories.
A masterful performer at home, Ashwin has been the architect of many famous wins in Indian conditions, where spin often dominates. His record on Indian soil, particularly in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, is exemplary, with numerous five-wicket hauls and match-winning spells.
Beyond his bowling, Ashwin's prowess with the bat has added depth to India's lower order. With six Test centuries and several crucial contributions in challenging situations, he has often acted as a saviour with the bat.
Source: India Today