Spin legend R Ashwin announces retirement from international cricket

Indian cricket team spinner R Ashwin on Wednesday announced his retirement from international cricket after the third Test match against Australia in Brisbane. Ashwin made the announcement along with captain Rohit Sharma in the post-match press conference after the match ended in a draw. Ashwin played the second match of the five-Test series in Adelaide but was replaced by Ravindra Jadeja in the team for the match in Brisbane. Ashwin retired from the game as the second-highest wicket-taker for India in Tests with 537 wickets in 106 matches, behind only Anil Kumble (619 wickets).

Ashwin will continue to play T20 tournaments and he will represent Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2025.

…

A name that is synonymous with mastery, wizardry, talent and innovation

a few spinners and #TeamIndiaThis precious all-rounder announced his retirement from international cricket.

Congratulations on a wonderful career, @ashwinravi99pic.twitter.com/swSwcP3QXA

– BCCI (@BCCI) 18 December 2024

“I won't take much of your time. Today will be my last day as an Indian cricketer,” Ashwin said in a joint press conference with captain Rohit Sharma at the end of the drawn third Test here. To answer any questions and left after the announcement.

The 38-year-old played the day-night test in Adelaide and took one wicket.

After Ashwin left the stage, Rohit said, “He was very confident about his decision. We have to stick to what he wants.”

Hours before the announcement, he was seen sharing an emotional moment with star batsman Virat Kohli in the dressing room. “A name synonymous with mastery, wizardry, talent and innovation,” BCCI said in its tribute post on X.

(With PTI inputs)