Indian spin legend Anil Kumble recently shared his thoughts on Ravichandran Ashwin’s remarkable career, expressing both admiration for his achievements and disappointment over how Ashwin was utilized during his tenure with the Indian cricket team. Kumble, who holds the record for the most Test wickets by an Indian cricketer with 619, acknowledged Ashwin’s incredible contribution to Indian cricket, with the off-spinner taking 537 wickets, second only to Kumble himself.
In his article for Sportstar, Anil Kumble praised Ashwin as a “matchwinner” and a “thorough professional” who consistently sought improvement and strived to outwit the opposition. “Every time you watch him bowl, you can see that he wants to get better,” Kumble wrote, highlighting Ashwin’s dedication to his craft over the past 14–15 years. Ashwin’s consistency and resilience in various conditions have made him a standout figure in Indian cricket.
However, Kumble also pointed out the missed opportunities in utilizing Ashwin to his full potential. He referenced the Indian team management’s decision not to select Ashwin regularly for tours in England, South Africa, and Australia, even when conditions were favourable for his style of bowling.
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“Unfortunately, the team management did not consistently select Ashwin to play in England, South Africa, and Australia, which has always perplexed me,” Anil Kumble remarked. He felt that Ashwin, alongside Ravindra Jadeja, could have formed a formidable spin partnership in all conditions, not just in subcontinental regions.
Reflecting on Ashwin’s retirement, Kumble expressed disappointment at the lack of a fitting farewell for the legendary bowler.
“Players who have contributed for such a long period deserve a grand farewell,” Anil Kumble said, emphasizing that Ashwin’s exit from the international scene deserved more recognition. Kumble also noted that many other cricketers had faced similar circumstances, but Ashwin’s unparalleled achievements should have warranted a more celebrated send-off.
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Ashwin’s career is marked by an average of 24 in 106 Test matches, placing him seventh on the all-time list of wicket-takers. His legacy in Indian cricket, as both a bowler and a matchwinner, will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.
