Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India]: India’s legendary off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has announced his retirement from Test cricket following the conclusion of the Brisbane Test in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. The match ended in a draw, marking the end of an illustrious Test career for one of India’s most celebrated cricketers.
Ashwin’s Announcement
Ashwin, accompanied by Indian skipper Rohit Sharma, revealed his decision during the post-match press conference. Speculation about his retirement had already started after emotional scenes at the end of the match, including a heartfelt embrace with teammate Virat Kohli.
Pravin Amre Pays Tribute
Former Indian cricketer Pravin Amre lauded Ashwin’s stellar career, saying:
“What a career he had—more than 539 Test wickets across all formats. He was always a great student of the game and an intelligent cricketer. Indian cricket will miss him, but I’m confident his second innings, wherever it may be, will be just as impactful.”
Ashwin’s Test Achievements
- Matches: 106
- Wickets: 537 (37 five-wicket hauls, 5 ten-wicket hauls)
- Runs: 3,503 (5 centuries and 13 half-centuries)
- All-Time Rankings:
- 7th highest wicket-taker in Test cricket history.
- 2nd highest wicket-taker for India in Tests, behind Anil Kumble (619).
- 2nd most five-wicket hauls in Test cricket after Muttiah Muralitharan (67).
Ashwin played a pivotal role in India’s rise to the top of the ICC Test rankings between 2014 and 2019, earning accolades for his consistency and versatility across various conditions.
Limited-Overs Career
In limited-overs cricket, Ashwin made significant contributions:
- ODIs: 116 matches, 156 wickets, and 707 runs.
- T20Is: 65 matches, 72 wickets, and 184 runs.
He was a vital part of India’s 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup-winning squad and the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy-winning team.
Legacy
Ashwin retires with a staggering 765 international wickets across all formats, making him India’s second-highest wicket-taker after Anil Kumble (953). Beyond the numbers, Ashwin’s intellectual approach to cricket and his ability to innovate will leave a lasting impression on the game.
A Remarkable Era Comes to an End
Ashwin’s departure marks the conclusion of a golden chapter in Indian cricket. As a bowler, all-rounder, and thinker of the game, his contributions have been immeasurable. His legacy will serve as an inspiration for generations to come, ensuring his impact endures both on and off the field.