Veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin made a quiet homecoming to Chennai early Thursday, a day after announcing his retirement from international cricket. The 37-year-old off-spinner was greeted at the airport by family, friends, and a handful of fans but chose to maintain his silence, avoiding questions from the waiting media.
Ashwin’s unexpected decision to retire mid-series during India’s tour of Australia caught many off guard. However, the cricketing stalwart seems eager to transition into a new phase of his career, with plans to focus on club-level cricket. Additionally, his sights appear set on continuing in the T20 format, particularly with a potential return to the IPL, representing his beloved Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
Following the rain-marred third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT 2024-25) in Brisbane, Ashwin announced his retirement, bringing an illustrious 14-year international career to a close. Debuting for India in 2010, Ashwin’s contributions have been monumental, especially in Test cricket, where he established himself as one of India’s most reliable bowlers. Ashwin retires as India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Tests, amassing 537 wickets from 106 matches, trailing only the legendary Anil Kumble, who holds 619 wickets.
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Beyond his bowling prowess, Ashwin proved his mettle as an all-rounder, scoring six Test centuries and playing several pivotal innings for the team. His performances in the limited-overs formats were also commendable, with 156 wickets in 116 ODIs and 72 wickets in 65 T20Is. He was an integral part of India’s triumphs in the 2011 World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy.
Tamil Nadu: Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin returned to Chennai after announcing his retirement from international cricket. He made the announcement after the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. His wife and children welcomed him at the airport pic.twitter.com/SgiZ5wU1dC
— IANS (@ians_india) December 19, 2024
#WATCH | Tamil Nadu: People extend a warm welcome to cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin as he arrives at his residence in Chennai, a day after announcing his retirement from International Cricket. pic.twitter.com/rUt5BFX3rA
— ANI (@ANI) December 19, 2024
In an emotional address to his teammates after the drawn Brisbane Test, Ashwin expressed his gratitude for their unwavering support throughout his journey. While acknowledging that he still has cricketing fire left in him, Ashwin stated his intention to channel his energy into club cricket going forward.
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“This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats at the international level,” Ravichandran Ashwin said during a heartfelt press conference. “I do feel there’s a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer, but I would like to expose and showcase that at the club level. I’ve had a lot of fun and a fulfilling journey.”
Ashwin’s legacy as a cricketing genius will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations to come.
