Ravichandran Ashwin, one of the greatest all-rounders in the history of Indian cricket, has officially retired from all formats of international cricket. The announcement came following the drawn third Test against Australia in Brisbane on December 18. At 38, Ashwin leaves behind a legacy that few can parallel, marked by unmatched records, career-defining milestones, and an indelible impact on the sport.
A Career Etched in Records
Ashwin’s career statistics speak volumes of his skill and consistency over 14 years of international cricket. With 537 Test wickets in 106 matches, Ashwin is India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Tests, behind only Anil Kumble. Globally, he ranks seventh on the all-time list of Test wicket-takers. Known for his precision and ability to outwit batters, Ashwin holds records for being the fastest bowler to reach 250, 300, and 350 Test wickets.
His remarkable tally includes 37 five-wicket hauls in Tests—joint-second best alongside Shane Warne—and a world record for dismissing the most left-handers (268) in the format. Beyond his bowling, Ashwin’s contribution with the bat cannot be overlooked. He amassed 3,503 Test runs, including six centuries, solidifying his status as a genuine all-rounder.
𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝘼𝙨𝙝𝙬𝙞𝙣 🫡
— BCCI (@BCCI) December 18, 2024
A name synonymous with mastery, wizardry, brilliance, and innovation 👏👏
The ace spinner and #TeamIndia's invaluable all-rounder announces his retirement from international cricket.
Congratulations on a legendary career, @ashwinravi99 ❤️ pic.twitter.com/swSwcP3QXA
Achievements Across Formats
Ashwin’s prowess wasn’t limited to red-ball cricket. In ODIs, he claimed 156 wickets in 116 matches and contributed with the bat, scoring 707 runs. In T20Is, he scalped 72 wickets across 65 appearances. A vital member of India’s victorious campaigns in the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy, Ashwin’s contributions were instrumental in India’s success during a golden era.
The Emotional Farewell
In a heartfelt press conference alongside Rohit Sharma, Ashwin reflected on his journey:
“This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats at the international level. I had a lot of fun, created memories with my teammates, and cherish my time playing for India.”
He extended his gratitude to teammates like Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, and Cheteshwar Pujara for their support on the field, and to the Australian team for being fierce competitors. Ashwin’s acknowledgment of his journey underscored the camaraderie and respect he shared within the cricketing fraternity.
🫂💙🇮🇳
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 18, 2024
Emotional moments from the Indian dressing room 🥹#AUSvINDOnStar #BorderGavaskarTrophy #Ashwin #ViratKohli pic.twitter.com/92a4NqNsyP
Legacy Beyond the Numbers
Ashwin’s legacy extends beyond his numbers. His innovative mindset and analytical approach to the game set him apart. Whether it was mastering new variations or outfoxing batters with clever strategies, Ashwin redefined the role of a spinner in modern cricket.
His accolades include the ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year and Test Cricketer of the Year in 2016, and a place in the ICC Test Team of the Decade (2011-2020). The prestigious Arjuna Award in 2015 further cemented his status as a cricketing icon.
What Lies Ahead for Ashwin?
Although his international career has ended, Ashwin isn’t stepping away from cricket entirely. With a lucrative IPL contract bringing him back to the Chennai Super Kings, fans will still witness his brilliance in franchise and domestic cricket. His participation in the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) is also anticipated, keeping him connected to the game he loves.
Final Thoughts
Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement marks the end of an era for Indian cricket. His extraordinary achievements, both as a bowler and an all-rounder, have left an indelible mark on the sport. Ashwin’s journey inspires aspiring cricketers worldwide—a testament to hard work, resilience, and unyielding passion.
As cricket fans bid farewell to Ashwin’s international career, his legacy will shine brightly in the annals of cricketing history.
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