As Ravichandran Ashwin bids farewell to international cricket, the world pauses to celebrate one of the most remarkable cricketing careers. A true wizard of spin and a cerebral tactician, Ashwin leaves an indelible mark on the game with his incredible skill, innovation and resilience.
Born on September 17, 1986, in Chennai, Ashwin began his cricketing journey as a promising all-rounder. Initially an opening batsman, his career took a significant turn when he focused on off-spin bowling during his teenage years. He soon made waves in domestic cricket, earning a spot in the Tamil Nadu Ranji team before catching the selectors’ attention in the Indian Premier League (IPL). His performances for Chennai Super Kings, where he mastered the art of T20 bowling, became his launchpad to international cricket.
Ashwin debuted for India in the ODI cricket in 2010 and made his Test debut the following year against West Indies. In a game dominated by pace, Ashwin redefined off-spin with his variations, flight and ability to outthink batsmen. His career is studded with accolades: over 700 wickets across formats, including 537 in Tests, making him one of the most successful spinners in cricket history. He also proved his mettle with the bat, contributing six Test centuries, often rescuing India in challenging situations.
Among his career highlights is his vital role in India’s victories in the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy and numerous Test series, particularly against Australia and England. His 2016 ICC Cricketer of the Year award underscored his dominance. Ashwin also mastered the carrom ball, revolutionising spin bowling with his innovative techniques.
Off the field, Ashwin’s analytical mind and articulate commentary endeared him to fans, as he often dissected the game with a unique perspective.
As he steps away, Ashwin leaves behind a legacy of excellence, intellect and unmatched determination. The cricketing world may no longer see his magical deliveries on the pitch but his contributions will inspire future generations for years to come.
After Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement, many from the cricket fraternity took to X to congratulate him on a great journey.
Here are some selected reactions:
https://x.com/imVkohli/status/1869269640154923429
https://x.com/GautamGambhir/status/1869267174206173369
https://x.com/DineshKarthik/status/1869265221170479615
https://x.com/ajinkyarahane88/status/1869271082634809566
https://x.com/RaviShastriOfc/status/1869281777778663608
https://x.com/anilkumble1074/status/1869284019424391178
https://x.com/IrfanPathan/status/1869262884557181425
https://x.com/bhogleharsha/status/1869260313859850593
https://x.com/hershybru/status/1869286287838269456
https://x.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1869267813887873103
https://x.com/s_badrinath/status/1869261094549950944
https://x.com/MohammadKaif/status/1869275127583842560
https://x.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1869264918308167886
https://x.com/ImRaina/status/1869283536756220247
https://x.com/irbishi/status/1869277188559966466
https://x.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1869262994510884965
Thank you Ashwin for the memories and the magic!
