Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement from international cricket has sent ripples through the cricketing world. Though sudden, the decision was not entirely unexpected, given the trajectory of his career in recent years. At 38, Ashwin remained India’s top spin bowler in Tests, but the team management’s apparent lack of confidence in his overseas abilities, combined with other factors, ultimately led him to this decision. Rohit Sharma, India’s captain, revealed he was aware of Ashwin’s intention to retire since arriving in Perth for a recent series. The fact that Sharma had to persuade Ashwin to participate in the Adelaide Test speaks volumes about the veteran bowler’s mindset at the time. Such decisions are typically communicated to team leadership in advance, but Ashwin chose a different path, keeping his cards close to his chest. Only Sharma was privy to his plans, not even Virat Kohli, the captain under whom Ashwin enjoyed much of his success, nor the BCCI selection panel. This secrecy underscores that the decision was entirely Ashwin’s. Rumors of Ashwin’s potential retirement swirled following India’s 0-3 home series loss to New Zealand. Speculation arose that this might be the last time Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja would share the field in a Test match on home soil. With Ashwin’s retirement now official, a BCCI insider confirmed that the board played no part in the decision, emphasizing Ashwin’s right to choose his own path. Ashwin’s decision seems to have been influenced by the New Zealand series. His nine wickets across three Tests fell short of his usual standards, especially when compared to Washington Sundar’s 12-wicket haul. This performance, along with other factors, likely cemented his decision to retire. Ashwin’s reluctance to participate in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia further hinted at his mindset. He had informed the team management that if his role was limited to the sidelines, he wouldn’t travel. India’s decision to field three different spinners in three Tests also contributed to Ashwin’s decision. The team started with Washington Sundar, replaced him with Ashwin in Adelaide, and then opted for Ravindra Jadeja in the drawn Brisbane Test. A key turning point was reportedly the decision by coach Gautam Gambhir to select Sundar over Ashwin for the first Test in Perth. This, coupled with the understanding that even with two spinners in Sydney, the preference would be for Sundar and Jadeja, seemingly sealed Ashwin’s resolve. As the Indian team looks to the future, a transition is inevitable. With the next World Test Championship cycle commencing with India’s tour of England next year, Ashwin would have been 40 by the 2027 final. His decision to retire now allows for younger talent to gain experience and prepare for the challenges ahead. By prioritizing the team’s future, Ashwin has once again demonstrated his commitment to Indian cricket.
