Ravichandran Ashwin shocked everyone with the announcement of his retirement. He confirmed that he won’t be available to play any form of international cricket and will fly back home. This news came as a surprise to many who were not expecting that. Former cricketers, cricket analysts, and fans all wished the off-spinner good luck for his second innings.
The Indian team also celebrated with a cake cutting. However, Indian legend Sunil Gavaskar also was one of those who were surprised by Ashwin’s retirement. He even criticized the 38-year-old for the timing of his decision.
Notably, rumors sparked when Ashwin was seen sitting with Virat Kohli in the dressing room and having a lengthy chat. The duo hugged each other, and Ashwin became emotional. After that, Ashwin joined Rohit Sharma at the post-match presentation and announced his retirement.
“Such decisions are announced after the series”- Sunil Gavaskar reacts to Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement
The third game between India and Australia was called off due to continuous rain. The series is still at 1-1 with two games left to play. During the post-match presentation, Ravichandran Ashwin confirmed his announcement and said, “I am retiring from international cricket with immediate effect, and this is my last day with the Indian team. I want to thank the BCCI and my teammates for their help and trust in me.”
This decision didn’t go well with Gavaskar, and he was critical about India’s situation in the important Border-Gavaskar Trophy. In an interaction on Star Sports, the Indian legend said that Ashwin’s retirement will leave a big hole in the team, and such a decision should not be taken mid-way through the series.
Gavaskar elaborated, “It leaves India one player short. I don’t know about the wicket in Melbourne, but the track in Sydney is helpful for spinners, and who knows, India might have played two spinners, including Ashwin, in the playing XI. Such decisions are announced after the series and not midway. It is a bit unusual.”
Adding to that, Gavaskar also lauded the off-spinner for his successful international career and wished him luck for the times ahead. Notably, Ashwin played the second test in Brisbane and was dropped from the third test. Ravichandran Ashwin retired with 537 tests, 156 ODIs, and 72 T20I wickets, respectively.
He retired as the second-highest wicket-taker for India and the seventh highest overall. Since 2010, Ashwin has been part of many wins for India, and the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy are some memorable ones.
