Ravichandran Ashwin surprised the cricket world on Wednesday by announcing his decision to retire from international cricket, following which current and former cricketers queued up on the internet to congratulate the legendary off-spinner for a successful career.
Ashwin, who finished his career with 537 Test wickets that are second only to Anil Kumble’s 619 in India’s bowling history, made his decision public at the press conference following the drawn third Test against Australia in Brisbane.
“This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats at an international level,” said the 38-year-old Ashwin, before adding that he will remain available for franchise cricket.
R Ashwin retirement press conference: Emotional hug with Rohit as Ashwin retires from all formats
The pink-ball Test in Adelaide marked his last appearance in international cricket, as he was not included in the eleven for the third Test in Brisbane.
Here’s how Ashwin’s teammates, coaches and cricketers from other parts of the world reacted to his retirement:
“The privilege of seeing you grow from a young bowler to a legend of modern cricket is something that I wouldn’t trade for the world.” – India’s chief coach, Gautam Gambhir
“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 cricket are second to none and you will always and always be remembered as a legend of Indian cricket.” – Virat Kohli
“Your ambition as a test cricketer was admirable. Well done for being the flag bearer of Indian spin for more than a decade. Be very proud of your achievements and hopefully see you more often now.” – Harbhajan Singh
“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.” – Irfan Pathan
“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.” – Dinesh Karthik
“He wasn’t just a match winner, he was a series winner.” – Former India batter Wasim Jaffer
“Thanks Ashwin … Have loved watching you play for India.” – Former England captain Michael Vaughan
