Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, one of the most successful spinners in cricket history, has announced his retirement from international cricket. The announcement came on Wednesday, following the conclusion of the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test against Australia in Brisbane.
World Cup Achievements
Ashwin was part of India’s 2011 World Cup-winning squad, though his opportunities were limited due to the presence of Harbhajan Singh.
In the 2015 World Cup, Ashwin made a significant impact, taking 13 wickets in eight matches, playing a pivotal role in India’s journey to the semifinals.
During the 2014 T20 World Cup, he was India’s standout bowler, with his best performance being 4 for 11 against Australia. He finished the tournament with 11 wickets, despite India losing in the final.
Test Cricket Dominance
Ashwin leaves the game as India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Tests, with 537 wickets at an average of 24.
His career includes 37 five-wicket hauls, underscoring his dominance in the longest format of the game.
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Notable records include being the fastest to reach 300 Test wickets and the second-fastest to 400, behind only Sri Lanka’s Muthiah Muralitharan.
Memorable Test Performances
Ashwin had a sensational start to his Test career, claiming nine five-wicket hauls in his first 16 matches.
His 2016-17 home season remains a highlight, where he was instrumental in India’s victories:
- 27 wickets in three Tests against New Zealand
- 28 scalps in five matches against England
- Six wickets in a one-off Test against Bangladesh
- 21 wickets in four Tests against Australia
Ashwin’s retirement marks the end of an era for Indian cricket. Known for his strategic acumen and ability to outfox batsmen, Ashwin redefined the role of an off-spinner in modern cricket. His remarkable consistency across formats and ability to adapt to different conditions made him one of the most dependable players in India’s squad.
As the cricketing world bids farewell to this legendary spinner, Ashwin’s contributions to Indian cricket will remain etched in history as an inspiration for future generations.
