Rain played a crucial role in helping India secure a draw in the third Test against Australia in Brisbane. However, the cricketing world was rocked by Ravichandran Ashwin’s sudden announcement of his retirement from international cricket during the post-match press conference.
The 38-year-old spinner, one of India’s finest cricketers, made the shocking declaration with two games still left in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Ashwin had been benched for the opening Test in Perth, returned for the second match, and was dropped again for the Brisbane Test. His announcement sent fans and cricket experts into a frenzy, with tributes pouring in from around the globe.
Among the many tributes, former India cricketer and Ashwin’s childhood friend, Abhinav Mukund, penned a heartfelt piece for ESPNcricinfo, reminiscing about their early cricketing days in Chennai.
Ashwin’s U-12 Mishap: A Humorous Memory
In his column, Mukund shared a funny story about Ashwin from their Under-12 cricket days. Recalling their first encounter, he said, “I didn’t think much of Ashwin back then. We were just regular kids playing cricket for fun. I remember an Under-12 tournament at his school, where he was injured and acted as the scorer while I made my first-ever hundred in school cricket.”
Mukund humorously described the mix-up that occurred during the game. “I celebrated my hundred when I was still in the 90s. A few deliveries later, I heard applause again and realized Ashwin, the scorer, had miscalculated the runs. Thankfully, I didn’t throw my wicket away during my premature celebration.”
Reflecting on Ashwin’s academic background, Mukund admitted he initially thought Ashwin might give up cricket to focus on his studies. “He went to a school known for producing academically gifted students. At the time, I thought his cricket days were behind him due to his injury. Little did I know the incredible journey he was about to embark on!”
A Legendary Career Comes to an End
Ashwin’s retirement marks the conclusion of a phenomenal international career. Widely regarded as one of the greatest players in cricket history, he was instrumental in India’s victories in the 2011 ODI World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy.
Starting his cricketing journey at the age of nine under the guidance of coach Chandrasekar Rao, Ashwin’s career is a testament to his dedication and skill. After announcing his retirement, he returned to Chennai and is set to feature in the IPL 2025, donning the Chennai Super Kings jersey.
Mukund’s lighthearted anecdote offers fans a glimpse into Ashwin’s early cricketing days, underscoring how far the legendary spinner has come in his illustrious career.
