Ravi Shastri, former India head coach, recently lauded Ravichandran Ashwin’s relentless drive to adapt and innovate, which made him one of cricket’s most exceptional players. Ashwin’s sudden retirement from international cricket, announced after India’s hard-fought draw against Australia in Brisbane, left the cricketing world reflecting on his illustrious career and enduring legacy.
Ashwin’s retirement announcement took fans and experts by surprise, with many speculating whether the decision was influenced by the game’s evolving demands. Shastri, however, emphasized that Ashwin’s willingness to embrace change and consistently refine his skills defined his success.
“What stands out for me was his constant pursuit of growth. He wasn’t satisfied with where he started; he always sought to learn new tricks, practice rigorously, and adapt to stay relevant,” Ravi Shastri noted on The ICC Review. “His legacy will be of a terrific match-winner, a fabulous record—537 wickets in Test cricket. Anyone with over 500 is special.”
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Debuting in 2011 against the West Indies, Ashwin quickly became an indispensable part of India’s Test team. Over 106 Tests, he claimed 537 wickets at an outstanding average of 24.00, cementing his place among cricket’s all-time greats.
Renowned for his cricketing intellect, Ashwin excelled in home conditions, delivering countless match-winning performances. His stellar form in 2016 earned him both the ICC Cricketer of the Year and ICC Test Cricketer of the Year awards, making him only the third Indian to win the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy.
Ashwin’s impact extended beyond bowling. As a reliable lower-order batter, he scored 3503 Test runs, including five centuries, often rescuing India in crucial moments. While bidding farewell to international cricket, Ashwin reaffirmed his commitment to club cricket and the IPL. The IPL 2025 mega auction saw him rejoin Chennai Super Kings for ₹9.25 crore, marking a nostalgic return to the franchise where he first rose to prominence.
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Ashwin expressed his excitement about reuniting with legends like MS Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja at CSK, signaling his readiness for this new chapter. As he transitions, Ashwin’s legacy as a cricketer who continually evolved to meet the game’s challenges will undoubtedly inspire future generations.
