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In a heartfelt announcement that sent shockwaves through the cricketing world, Ravichandran Ashwin, one of the finest spinners in modern cricket, revealed his retirement from international cricket at the age of 38. The announcement came shortly after the conclusion of the Gabba Test, evoking a mix of nostalgia and admiration from fans and cricket legends alike.
A glorious career comes to an end
Ashwin’s illustrious career spanned over 14 years, beginning with his international debut in an ODI against Sri Lanka in June 2010. His final appearance came in the Adelaide Test against Australia in December 2024. Known for his wizardry with the ball and sharp cricketing acumen, the right-arm spinner has played 287 international matches, taking an astounding 765 wickets.
This achievement places him second on the all-time list of Indian wicket-takers, behind the legendary Anil Kumble. Out of these, 537 wickets were claimed in Test cricket, making him the seventh-highest wicket-taker in Test history. Ashwin’s remarkable consistency and adaptability across formats solidified his place among cricket’s all-time greats. The 38-year old player career was punctuated by a plethora of records and accolades. His ability to dominate with both the ball and bat earned him widespread acclaim. He shares the record for the most Player of the Series awards in Test cricket (11), alongside Sri Lankan spin legend Muttiah Muralitharan.
Also READ: Twitter reactions: Rain drama at Gabba leads to drawn 3rd Test between Australia and India
Known for his calm demeanor and sharp cricketing intellect, Chennai lad has left an indelible mark on the game. His presence in the dressing room, leadership on the field, and ability to adapt to any situation made him a beloved figure among teammates and opponents alike.
Tributes poured in from cricket legends, fans, and former teammates, all acknowledging Ashwin’s immense impact on the sport. Fellow cricketers lauded his contributions, describing him as a game-changer who could turn the tide of a match with his brilliance. The world Cup winner retirement marks the end of an era, but his legacy as one of cricket’s greatest spinners will endure. As the cricketing fraternity bids farewell to this modern great, the void left by off-spinner departure will undoubtedly be felt.
Tributes from the cricketing world for retiring R Ashwin
I’ve played with you for 14 years and when you told me today you’re retiring, it made me a bit emotional and the flashbacks of all those years playing together came to me. I’ve enjoyed every bit of the journey with you ash, your skill and match winning contributions to Indian… pic.twitter.com/QGQ2Z7pAgc
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) December 18, 2024
Legend of the game @ashwinravi99 wish you all the best for future https://t.co/M1R1SApsBp
— Josh Hazlewood (@Joshrhazlewood) December 18, 2024
Many congratulations Ash on a memorable career. You have been an inspiration and have been a great example of how to make the best of your talent and achieve excellence. Won India so many matches and series with both bat and ball and a great competitor , I am sure your second… pic.twitter.com/Fg3k1LfBVR
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) December 18, 2024
Take a bow, Ashwin bro! 🏏 Your magic with the ball, sharp cricketing mind, and unmatched passion for Test cricket will forever be etched in our hearts. Thank you for giving us countless moments of joy and pride. Wishing you all the best for your next chapter! 🙌❤️ #Ashwin… pic.twitter.com/5jBuHusPn2
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) December 18, 2024
One of the greatest to have played our game. I have enjoyed our interactions @ashwinravi99 and I can only wish you the very best in life. What you leave behind puts you among the best and there is a page in the Hall of Fame for you. pic.twitter.com/Jjlg8tyq7k
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) December 18, 2024
An absolute match-winner, @ashwinravi99! Retiring as India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket is nothing short of monumental. Combine that with his invaluable batting contributions, and you get one of the game’s solid all-rounders. Well done, Ash! pic.twitter.com/9UAxCNouSf
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) December 18, 2024
Congratulations on an incredible journey, @ashwinravi99! Standing at slip was never a dull moment with you bowling, every ball felt like a chance waiting to happen. All the best for your next chapter! pic.twitter.com/HhBUHVPu3v
— Ajinkya Rahane (@ajinkyarahane88) December 18, 2024
Happy retirement, @ashwinravi99 ❤️
A true genius of the game and one of cricket’s sharpest minds.
Congratulations on an incredible career! 👏— Lasith Malinga (@malinga_ninety9) December 18, 2024
End of an era, but the legacy lives on! 🌀 @ashwinravi99, your contributions to the game are unmatched. It’s been an honor sharing the field with you, brother. Wishing you all the best in your next chapter! 🙌
— Umesh Yaadav (@y_umesh) December 18, 2024
He wasn't just a match winner he was a series winner. Congratulations on a phenomenal career @ashwinravi99! Will go down as one of the greats of the game. Don't go too far away though, cricket is richer with you. 537 Test wkts at 24.01! CHAMPION 🙌🏻 #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/0Kx0N6NwRX
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) December 18, 2024
a GOAT retires
Well done on what's been an outstanding career . Proud to have played with you and definitely the greatest ever to have played from TAMILNADU. @ashwinravi99
Much love and enjoy some leisurely time with family and friends ❤️#INDvAUS #ashwin#legend
— DK (@DineshKarthik) December 18, 2024
Thanks @ashwinravi99 .. Have loved watching you play for India .. 👍
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) December 18, 2024
Well played Ash and congratulations on a legendary journey! From spinning webs around the best in the world to standing tall in tough situations, you’ve been a real asset to the team. Welcome to the other side! 🙌🏻 @ashwinravi99
— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) December 18, 2024
Hey Ash, congratulations on a magnificent career, old boy. You were an invaluable asset during my tenure as coach and enriched the game immensely with your skill and craft. God bless. @ashwinravi99 @BCCI @ICC #Ashwin #AUSvsIND pic.twitter.com/ZLelKjmEdu
— Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) December 18, 2024