India’s R Ashwin walks off the field after a test cricket match against Sri Lanka, in Nagpur.
Credit: PTI File Photo
India's premier off-spinner R Ashwin on Wednesday surprised the cricketing world by announcing his retirement with immediate effect in the middle of the Test series against Australia in Brisbane despite having a "bit of punch left" in him.
The bowler's decision to retire, understandably, sparked a series of reactions from the who's who of Indian cricket, as well as from fans and leaders.
Teammate Virat Kohli posted an emotional farewell message, writing, "I’ve played with you for 14 years and when you told me today you’re retiring, it made me a bit emotional and the flashbacks of all those years playing together came to me. I’ve enjoyed every bit of the journey with you ash, your skill and match winning contributions to Indian cricket are second to none and you will always and always be remembered as a legend of Indian cricket. Wish you nothing but the best in your life with your family and everything else that it unfolds for you. With massive respect and lots of love to you and your close ones. Thanks for everything buddy."
Upcoming star batter Yashasvi Jaiswal also bid Ashwin a warm farewell, writing, "Ash Anna, your contributions to Indian cricket are unmatched, and I’m grateful to have shared the field with you. Thank you for everything. Enjoy your retirement!"
"From perfecting the carrom ball to contributing crucial runs, you always found a way to win. Your journey shows that true greatness lies in never being afraid to experiment and evolve. Your legacy will inspire one and all," Tendulkar wrote on X.
BCCI President Roger Binny said Ashwin’s brilliance has been a cornerstone of Indian cricket’s success over the years.
"From being a prodigious talent to becoming one of the greatest off-spinners in cricketing history, his achievements are a source of immense pride. He redefined spin bowling and always sought to stay ahead of the curve. Ashwin is a perfect role model for young cricketers."
"The privilege of seeing you grow from a young bowler to a legend of modern cricket is something that I wouldn’t trade for the world! I know that generations of bowlers to come will say that I became a bowler coz of Ashwin! U will be missed brother!," wrote former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir.
"Hey Ash, congratulations on a magnificent career, old boy. You were an invaluable asset during my tenure as coach and enriched the game immensely with your skill and craft. God bless," wrote cricket legend Ravi Shastri.
"a GOAT retires Well done on what's been an outstanding career . Proud to have played with you and definitely the greatest ever to have played from TAMILNADU," wrote former Indian cricketer Dinesh Karthik.
IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK), for whom Ashwin played for several seasons, also bid the bowler good-bye.
"2010 - 2024. An Illustrious international career that's etched in the history of Cricket! Thank you, Ashwin!," CSK wrote on its X account.
Google India, too, acknowledged the bowler after his announcement, writing, "287 international matches, 765 wickets, over 4000 runs 🏏Thank you for the countless memories, #Ashwin Anna."
Famed commentator Harsha Bhogle also commented on Ashwin's retirement, writing, "Must admit to being a bit emotional today. #Ashwin"
Former India cricketer Suresh Raina also wrote, "Take a bow, Ashwin bro! 🏏 Your magic with the ball, sharp cricketing mind, and unmatched passion for Test cricket will forever be etched in our hearts. Thank you for giving us countless moments of joy and pride. Wishing you all the best for your next chapter!"
Ashwin has taken 537 wickets at an average of 24 in 106 Test matches. He is also seventh on the overall list of wicket-takers.
(With PTI inputs)