Turn Legend R Ashwin Declares Retirement From Worldwide Cricket

Ravichandran Ashwin's Cricket Life

Early Life and Background

Ravichandran Ashwin was born on September 17, 1986, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. He comes from a middle-class family with a strong inclination towards academics. His father, Ravichandran, was a former club-level cricketer who played as a fast bowler, which influenced Ashwin’s early interest in cricket. Initially, Ashwin started as a batsman but later transitioned into an off-spin bowler under the guidance of his coaches.

Domestic Career

Ashwin made his debut for Tamil Nadu in the 2006–07 Ranji Trophy. He showcased his all-round abilities with both the ball and the bat. His standout performances in the domestic circuit eventually earned him a spot in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

IPL Career

Ashwin gained recognition while playing for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) under the captaincy of MS Dhoni. His clever variations, including the carrom ball, made him a valuable asset. He played a key role in CSK's title-winning campaigns in 2010 and 2011. Later, he represented teams like Rising Pune Supergiant, Kings XI Punjab, Delhi Capitals, and returned to CSK. As of 2024, he is a seasoned IPL player known for his tactical acumen and ability to outthink batters.

International Career

1. ODI Debut: June 5, 2010, vs. Sri Lanka

2. T20I Debut: June 12, 2010, vs. Zimbabwe

3. Test Debut: November 6, 2011, vs. West Indies

Test Cricket

Ashwin is one of the most successful spinners in Test cricket. His debut Test series against West Indies in 2011 was a landmark, where he took 22 wickets and scored a century. Over the years, he became India's premier spinner in home conditions, forming a deadly spin duo with Ravindra Jadeja. His ability to exploit subcontinental pitches and adapt on foreign soil makes him one of the best off-spinners of all time.

Notable Achievements:

Fastest Indian to 50, 100, 150, 200, 300, 400, and 450 Test wickets.

2nd fastest bowler in history to reach 450 Test wickets (after Muttiah Muralitharan).

5 Test centuries, showing his all-round skills.

Multiple Man of the Series awards, especially in home series.

ODI & T20 Career

In ODIs and T20Is, Ashwin played a key role in India’s campaigns in ICC tournaments. He was part of the squad that won the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup and the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy. While he had a break from limited-overs cricket, he made a comeback during the 2021 ICC T20 World Cup.

Bowling Style and Innovations

Ashwin is known for his wide range of deliveries, including the classic off-spin, carrom ball, top-spinner, and arm ball. His deceptive variations make him one of the most intelligent bowlers in world cricket. His ability to constantly innovate, like bowling leg-spin on occasion, keeps batters guessing.

Batting Skills

Ashwin is also a handy lower-order batsman. He has scored over 5 Test centuries and played several crucial knocks under pressure. His ability to bat long innings has helped India in tough situations, especially in Test cricket.

Key Records and Milestones

Over 460 Test wickets and counting.

5 Test centuries.

Most Player of the Series awards for an Indian cricketer in Test cricket.

Fastest to 300 and 400 Test wickets for India.

Awards and Recognition

ICC Test Cricketer of the Year (2016).

Arjuna Award (2014).

ICC World Test XI selections multiple times.

Personal Life

Ashwin is married to Prithi Narayanan, his childhood friend, and the couple has two daughters. Known for his intellect, he actively engages in cricket analysis and discussions. He also runs a YouTube channel where he talks about cricket strategy and interviews prominent cricketers.

Legacy and Impact

Ashwin is widely regarded as one of the greatest off-spinners in the history of cricket. His influence extends beyond India, as he is seen as a role model for young spinners worldwide. His analytical approach, ability to adapt, and tactical awareness have earned him comparisons with legends like Muttiah Muralitharan and Anil Kumble.

As of 2024, Ashwin continues to be a vital part of the Indian Test squad, contributing with both bat and ball. His legacy as one of India's greatest cricketers is al

ready cemented, and he remains a key figure in India's future campaigns.

Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin announced his immediate retirement from international cricket on December 18, 2024, following the third Test against Australia at the Gabba, which concluded in a draw. 

At 38, Ashwin retires as India's second-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, with 537 wickets in 106 matches, trailing only Anil Kumble. 

In a press conference alongside Indian captain Rohit Sharma, Ashwin stated, "This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats at the international level." 

He expressed gratitude to his teammates, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), and the Australian cricket team for their competitive spirit. 

Ashwin's retirement has elicited reactions from various cricket personalities. Former India captain Virat Kohli reminisced about their 14 years together, lauding Ashwin's contributions to the team. Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh praised Ashwin's ambition and achievements, while former bowling all-rounder Irfan Pathan highlighted Ashwin's status as India's second-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket and his batting prowess. Former batter Dinesh Karthik commended Ashwin's career, especially noting his significance from Tamil Nadu. Former England captain Michael Vaughan also acknowledged his admiration for Ashwin's career. 

Ashwin's decision to retire was unexpected, with reports suggesting that even the BCCI selection panel was not informed beforehand, indicating that it was a personal decision. 

Despite his retirement from international cricket, Ashwin intends to continue playing at the club level. 

He was recently acquired by the Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League auction and is expected to represent them in the upcoming season.