'Passing the torch' moment: Ashwin's heartfelt social media exchange with Washington Sundar

In what came as quite a surprise to cricket fans across the world, India off-spin great Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket amid the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia.

One of the country's most successful and decorated cricketers, Ashwin will stop donning India's jersey after an illustrious career that saw him become the second highest wicket-taker for India in Tests with 537 wickets in 106 games, trailing only the great Anil Kumble (619 wickets) in the overall statistics.

Quite unsurprisingly, a flurry of tributes and valedictory messages poured in for the 38-year-old as soon as news of his retirement started doing the rounds. His fellow teammate and off-spin all-rounder Washington Sundar was no exception. Sundar, who hails from the state of Tamil Nadu just like Ashwin, shared a heartfelt note on social media platform 'X' expressing his love, admiration, and respect for 'Ash Anna'.

“More than just a team mate, you have been an inspiration, Ash anna. It's been an honour to share the field and dressing room with you," he wrote.

“Coming from the same state of Tamil Nadu, I have grown up watching you from the close corners of Chepauk to playing against and alongside you. Every moment has been a privilege. The learnings, both on and off the field, are something I will carry forever. Wishing you success and happiness in whatever comes next,” Sundar added, emphasizing how he idolised Ashwin and followed in his footsteps.

Ashwin, in a sweet gesture, responded to Sundar's message, "Thupakkiya pudinga washiii! The 2 minutes you spoke that night in the get together was the best."

The term 'Thupakkiya pudinga washiii!' is a famous dialogue from Tamil superstar Vijay's recent film, The Greatest of All Time (G.O.A.T), which essentially means 'hold this gun.'

This has got the netizens buzzing, who feel that Ashwin passed the torch to Sundar, his successor in the Indian team, through this act of camaraderie.