India’s premier off-spinner, Ravichandran Ashwin, has announced his retirement from international cricket, marking the end of an illustrious career that left an indelible mark on the game. The announcement came after the rain-hit third Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy concluded in a draw. Ashwin departs as India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, with an impressive tally of 537 wickets in 106 matches, second only to Anil Kumble’s 619.
Reacting to Ashwin’s decision, Sri Lankan spin legend Muttiah Muralitharan heaped praise on his fellow off-spinner, calling him an inspiration for future generations. In an exclusive interview with Telecom Asia Sport, Muralitharan reflected on Ashwin’s remarkable journey, highlighting how he transitioned from a budding batsman to one of the greatest spinners in cricket history.
“You must remember that Ashwin started his career as a batsman, dabbling in spin as a part-time option. He soon realised the writing was on the wall for his batting aspirations and shifted his focus to bowling. Hats off to him for making that bold pivot and achieving what he has. Reaching 500 Test wickets is no walk in the park,” Muttiah Muralitharan stated.
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Muralitharan, who retired with an unparalleled 800 Test wickets, recalled his early impressions of Ashwin. “I was at the tail end of my career when he came onto the scene, but he struck me as an astute young man eager to learn. He sought advice, asked thoughtful questions, and put in hard work to better himself. That drive and hunger are what set him apart,” he remarked.
Ashwin’s contributions go beyond the numbers. As the second-most successful off-spinner in Test cricket, trailing only Muralitharan, he earned widespread admiration for his innovative bowling and tactical acumen. “To retire as India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Tests is a monumental feat. Ashwin has made himself, Tamil Nadu cricket, and the entire nation proud. I wish him all the success in his second innings,” Muttiah Muralitharan added.
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The Sri Lankan great also emphasized Ashwin’s relentless pursuit of excellence. “Even as his career was winding down, his passion for learning never waned. Look at the variations he developed—proof that he wasn’t content to rest on his laurels. He always kept pushing the envelope,” Muttiah Muralitharan concluded.
Ashwin’s legacy will undoubtedly serve as an enduring inspiration for aspiring cricketers, both in India and beyond.
