The cricket world united to honor Ravichandran Ashwin’s remarkable achievements after the 38-year-old Indian off-spinner announced his retirement from Test cricket following the drawn Brisbane Test at the Gabba. The veteran spinner, a cornerstone of India’s success in red-ball cricket, leaves behind a legacy of brilliance and inspiration.
Tributes Pour In for a Legend
Ashwin’s decision, shared moments after the Brisbane Test ended, was met with admiration and heartfelt messages from cricketing greats and teammates.
Dinesh Karthik, who shared dressing rooms with Ashwin at the international and domestic levels, hailed his legacy:
“A GOAT retires. Well done on an outstanding career. Proud to have played with you and definitely the greatest ever from Tamil Nadu @ashwinravi99. Much love and enjoy time with family.”
West Indies legend Ian Bishop reflected on Ashwin’s global impact:
“Thank you, Ravi Ashwin. You taught, you educated, and you entertained. Your excellence enriched the game for so many years.”
Anil Kumble, India’s all-time leading wicket-taker, applauded Ashwin’s journey:
“@ashwinravi99, your career has been extraordinary! With over 700 international wickets and a brilliant cricketing mind, you are one of the finest to grace the field. Congratulations on a stellar career and wishing you an even brighter future.”
KL Rahul, India’s star batter, expressed gratitude for Ashwin’s contributions:
“Congratulations on a legendary career, Ash! Your skill, determination, and passion have inspired us all. It’s been an honour to share the field with you. Best wishes for the future!”
Cheteshwar Pujara, reflecting on his shared memories with Ashwin, wrote:
“Many congratulations on a career you can be proud of! Your dedication to Indian cricket will be etched in history. While this chapter ends, I’m sure you’ll continue contributing to the game. It’s been an honour to play alongside you.”
Mayank Agarwal, India’s opener, summed up Ashwin’s career in style:
“He came, he saw, he conquered, and he left like a legend. Thank you for the magic, the memories, and the mastery. Best wishes for the future.”
A Record-Breaking Career
Ashwin’s illustrious career spanned 14 years, during which he played 106 Tests, taking 537 wickets—second among Indian bowlers only to Anil Kumble. His 37 five-wicket hauls place him among the best in Test history, with only Muttiah Muralitharan ahead of him. Ashwin also contributed with the bat, amassing 3,503 runs, including five centuries.
Beyond Tests, Ashwin excelled in limited-overs cricket, taking 228 wickets in 181 matches. He played 116 ODIs, claiming 156 wickets, and 65 T20Is, taking 72 wickets.
A Legacy Beyond Numbers
Ashwin was instrumental in India’s rise to dominance in Test cricket, particularly between 2014 and 2019. He played a crucial role in key series victories and was part of India’s 2011 World Cup-winning squad and the 2013 Champions Trophy team. With 765 international wickets across formats, Ashwin is India’s second-highest wicket-taker after Anil Kumble.
An Era Ends, Inspiration Lives On
Ashwin’s retirement marks the conclusion of a golden chapter in Indian cricket. As one of the greatest spinners in the game’s history, his contributions will continue to inspire future generations. The cricket fraternity and fans around the world celebrate his unparalleled achievements and wish him success in the next phase of his journey.
