New Delhi [India], December 18 : Indian cricket legend Virat Kohli shared an emotional message for his long-time friend and one of India’s greatest spinners, Ravichandran Ashwin, following his announcement of international retirement on Wednesday.
Having played alongside Ashwin for 14 years, Kohli reflected on their shared journey through both triumphs and challenges. The two have been integral to many of India’s landmark victories, and their bond extends beyond the field.
Kohli expressed his emotions on social media, writing, “I’ve played with you for 14 years, and when you told me today you’re retiring, it made me a bit emotional. Flashbacks of all those years playing together came to me. I’ve enjoyed every bit of the journey with you, Ash. Your skill and match-winning contributions to Indian cricket are second to none, and you will always be remembered as a legend of Indian cricket.”
He continued, “I wish you nothing but the best in your life with your family and everything else that unfolds for you. With massive respect and lots of love to you and your close ones. Thanks for everything, buddy.”
Ashwin, who is currently with the Indian team in Brisbane, was visibly emotional during his retirement announcement, with Kohli offering a comforting hug. In his brief statement, Ashwin remarked, “I don’t want to make it about myself. This is my last day as an international cricketer. I’ve had a lot of fun and made a lot of memories alongside my teammates, even though we’ve lost some over the years. We’re the last bunch of OGs, we can say that.”
Ashwin, known for his mastery of red-ball cricket, concluded his career with 106 Tests, 537 wickets, 37 five-wicket hauls, and 3,503 runs, marking an extraordinary legacy that extends beyond mere statistics.