Spin wizard R Ashwin retires from international cricket | VIDEO

In a heartfelt moment that marked the end of an era, India’s premier off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin bid farewell to international cricket on Wednesday, following the conclusion of the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Brisbane.

The announcement, made after the third Test in Brisbane, comes amid a series that is tied at 1-1, as both teams eye a crucial advantage heading into the Boxing Day Test. Ashwin’s decision to retire follows a distinguished 14-year journey at the highest level, a career that has seen him cement his place as one of India’s finest ever bowlers.

An Emotional Goodbye: A Moment Shared with Virat Kohli

The day of Ashwin’s announcement was charged with emotion, especially when the Tamil Nadu spinner shared a poignant moment with former India captain Virat Kohli. During a rain break on Day 5, just after tea, Ashwin was seen engaged in a long, deep conversation with Kohli in the dressing room. The two shared an emotional embrace, a silent acknowledgment of the incredible journey they had both witnessed and participated in over the years. Their camaraderie, forged on and off the field, was evident, and this moment epitomized the end of Ashwin’s remarkable international tenure.

A Legendary Career: Ashwin’s Impact on Indian Cricket

Ashwin’s retirement marks the end of an illustrious career in which he played a pivotal role in India’s rise to the top of the Test rankings. With 537 wickets in 106 Test matches, Ashwin is India’s second-highest wicket-taker in the format, standing tall behind only the legendary Anil Kumble. His 37 five-wicket hauls place him second globally, only behind Muttiah Muralitharan’s record of 67.

Ashwin’s career has been a testament to his skill, determination, and the ability to evolve. The 38-year-old spinner’s contributions extended beyond just Test cricket. He was an integral part of India’s 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup-winning team and their triumph in the 2013 Champions Trophy. Over his 287-match international career, Ashwin claimed 765 wickets across all formats, cementing his place as one of the greatest all-rounders of his generation.

A Legacy in the World Test Championship

While Ashwin’s statistics speak for themselves, his contributions to the World Test Championship (WTC) have been particularly noteworthy. Not only was Ashwin the first bowler to claim 100 WTC wickets, but he also finished as the highest wicket-taker in the tournament’s history, with 195 wickets from 41 matches. His closest competitor, Australia’s Nathan Lyon, has 190 wickets in the WTC. Ashwin’s consistency and control in various conditions made him a key figure in India’s dominance in the longest format of the game.

His mastery over spin, coupled with a tactical understanding of the game, made him an invaluable asset for India, particularly in overseas conditions where spinners often struggle to make a mark. Ashwin’s contributions have been pivotal in India’s series victories in Australia, England, and New Zealand over the past decade, and his ability to bowl in partnership with fellow spinner Ravindra Jadeja formed the bedrock of India’s formidable bowling attack.

Respect from the Opposition: Nathan Lyon’s Tribute

On the morning of Day 5 of the third Test, Australian off-spinner Nathan Lyon expressed nothing but admiration for Ashwin’s abilities and the respect he had earned within the cricketing community. “Nothing but respect,” Lyon remarked. “Just the way Ash has conducted himself on and off the field for a number of years now, and his skillset is incredible. We’ve got different opinions on different things, there’s no right or wrong. But to have those conversations with a bowler like Ashwin is amazing. From different variations to different tactics, understanding what he’s trying to do – it’s been brilliant.”

Lyon’s comments reflect the deep respect that Ashwin commands, not only from his teammates but also from opposition players who have seen firsthand the threat he poses with the ball. The camaraderie between Lyon and Ashwin has often been noted during the series, with both bowlers exchanging ideas and discussing tactics.

The Next Chapter: IPL and Franchise Cricket

While Ashwin’s international career may have come to an end, his journey in the world of cricket is far from over. The 38-year-old spinner is expected to continue featuring in franchise cricket, with his most notable involvement being in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Last month, Ashwin was signed by Chennai Super Kings for a hefty Rs 9.75 crore at the IPL 2025 Mega Auction, marking a return to his former franchise. This move signals that Ashwin is likely to remain a fixture in the T20 format, where his experience and skill will continue to add immense value.

Ashwin’s involvement in the IPL will provide him with a platform to continue showcasing his craft in the shortest format of the game. His unique ability to turn the ball, along with his variations, make him a potent force in T20 cricket, and his leadership qualities will undoubtedly make him a key figure in Chennai Super Kings’ plans going forward.

A Farewell to an Icon

Ravichandran Ashwin’s decision to retire from international cricket is a poignant moment in the history of Indian cricket. As he hangs up his boots, his legacy will remain etched in the annals of the game, not just for his remarkable statistics but also for the indelible mark he left on the sport. Ashwin’s retirement brings an end to a career that was built on passion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to the game.

As he moves into the next phase of his career, cricket fans will continue to admire and respect the achievements of one of India’s finest cricketers. Ravichandran Ashwin will always be remembered as a true legend of the game, whose contributions helped shape the modern era of Indian cricket. (With inputs from Agencies)