BRISBANE, Australia (AP) — Star Indian allrounder Ravichandran Ashwin announced his immediate retirement from international cricket on Wednesday.
Ashwin made the announcement at a hastily-called media conference following the drawn test between Australia and India at the Gabba.
Australia’s captain Pat Cummins, left, celebrates with teammate Travis Head after the dismissal of India’s Ravichandran Ashwin during the day three of the second cricket test match between Australia and India at the Adelaide Oval in Adelaide, Australia, Sunday, Dec. 8, 2024. (AP Photo/James Elsby)
“It’s a very emotional moment,” Ashwin said. “I have had a lot of fun, I have made a lot of memories alongside Rohit (captain Rohit Sharma) and my other teammates. I do feel there’s a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer but I would like to showcase that in club-level cricket.”
Ashwin played 106 tests for India since his 2011 debut, taking 537 wickets. He took more wickets against Australia than any other country, with 115 at 28.58 in 23 tests against them.
“A big thank-you to the Australian cricket team, who’ve been very fierce competitors,” Ashwin said. “I’ve enjoyed my time playing against them.”
Sharma said he was aware of Ashwin’s desire to walk away before the start of the series, but convinced him to play in Adelaide last week.
India’s Ravichandran Ashwin plays a shot during the day three of the second cricket test match between Australia and India at the Adelaide Oval in Adelaide, Australia, Sunday, Dec. 8, 2024. (AP Photo/James Elsby)
The 38-year-old spinner was then left out of the third test in Brisbane, with Ravindra Jadeja taking his spot.
“He felt if I am not needed now in the series, I am better off saying goodbye to the team,” Sharma said.
Ashwin’s call means he will not be available for the final two tests in Australia, with Jadeja and Washington Sundar the two remaining spinners in the squad.
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