Report Suggests Player’s Selection Influences R Ashwin’s Early Retirement

Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India’s greatest cricketers, announced his retirement from international cricket in a way that surprised fans and experts alike. Having served Indian cricket for over 14 years, Ashwin left on his own terms, refusing to wait for the last series to conclude or let anyone else dictate his exit. This decision highlights his fierce independence and self-awareness as a cricketer and a person.

The Stellar Career of R Ashwin

Ashwin’s journey began as a young cricketer from Chennai, representing Tamil Nadu in domestic cricket. His sharp cricketing brain and versatility as an off-spinner made him stand out. From playing as a promising spinner to becoming an indispensable part of the Indian team, Ashwin’s evolution was swift and impactful.

With 537 Test wickets to his name, Ashwin stands as one of the greatest bowlers in Indian cricket history. He became known for his ability to break partnerships and deliver in critical moments. Adding to his bowling prowess, his batting capability turned him into a valuable all-rounder.

The Unexpected Retirement Announcement

Ashwin shocked fans when he informed Indian skipper Rohit Sharma of his decision to retire if he wasn’t a necessary part of the playing XI. “If I am not needed, I am better off saying goodbye to the game,” Ashwin reportedly said. This statement underscores his belief in being a contributor rather than a passive member of the team.

A Turning Point in New Zealand

Ashwin’s decision seemed inevitable after a home series against New Zealand, where he felt undermined. Despite taking nine wickets in three games, Washington Sundar was increasingly favored as the first-choice spinner.

Dropped in Perth

The decision to bench Ashwin in the first game of the Australian series further solidified his stance. India’s team combination at Perth favored Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja due to their batting superiority, a choice that Ashwin seemingly could not reconcile with.

The next Test series is in England (June to August) where India might not take along more than two specialist spinners who are also batters. India’s next home Test series is in October-November. So, 10 months is a long time and once this World Test Championship cycle ends, one is looking at 2027. Ashwin would have been 40 by then with transition in Indian cricket hopefully complete.

“There was no nudge from the selection committee. Ashwin is a legend in Indian cricket and he has the right to take his own call,” a senior BCCI source told PTI on conditions of anonymity.

Rohit Sharma’s Role in Convincing Ashwin

Rohit Sharma, who played a pivotal role in Ashwin’s decision to participate in the pink-ball Test, revealed the emotional conversation they had. “When I arrived in Perth, this was a chat we had and I somehow convinced him to stay for that pink ball Test match and then after that, it just happened…He felt that if I am not needed right now in the series, I am better off saying goodbye to the game,” the India captain revealed. The skipper acknowledged Ashwin’s contribution and respected his desire to leave the game on his terms.

“It’s important when a player like him who has had so many moments with the Indian team and he has been a truly big match-winner for us, he is allowed to make those decisions on his own and if it was now, so be it,” added Rohit.

Harbhajan Singh’s Perspective

Ashwin’s predecessor, Harbhajan Singh, believed the announcement could have been delayed. “Numbers can’t lie and he has such a phenomenal record. I would have ideally liked him to stay back for the final two Tests as in Sydney, he could have played a part. But it’s an individual call. When the name is as big as Ashwin, it is the player, who decides. May be he didn’t want to hang around,” Harbhajan commented, highlighting the vacuum Ashwin’s absence could create.

Why Ashwin’s Retirement Was Inevitable

The rise of players like Washington Sundar and Axar Patel has brought fresh competition in India’s spinning department. Their batting abilities gave them the edge in conditions requiring depth in the lineup.

While India has ample talent to fill the void Ashwin leaves, his strategic acumen will be hard to replicate. The challenge lies in nurturing young spinners who can emulate his success. Ashwin’s retirement serves as a reminder of the competitive nature of modern cricket. Spinners who want to excel must bring all-round skills to the table to remain relevant.

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