Cricket fans were shocked when Ravichandran Ashwin returned to Chennai on December 19, 2024. He had just announced his retirement from international cricket during the third Test in Brisbane. Fans were filled with mixed emotions, having followed his amazing career.
Ashwin talked openly about his retirement decision. “It was an instinctive call,” he said calmly. “The thought had been brewing for a while, but the timing felt right.” His return to Chennai marked the end of an era in Indian cricket.
When asked about any doubts, Ashwin was clear. “Zero regrets,” he said firmly. “My career has been a dream come true, and I’m leaving on my own terms.” His words showed a man at peace, ready for the next chapter of his life.
Key Takeaways
- Ashwin retired during the third Test in Brisbane
- He expressed no regrets about his retirement decision
- The spin bowler cited instinct as the driving force behind his choice
- Ashwin’s return to Chennai marked the end of his international career
- He finished with 537 Test wickets, second only to Anil Kumble for India
- Ashwin plans to continue playing in the IPL for Chennai Super Kings
Breaking News: Ashwin’s Surprise Retirement Announcement
Cricket fans around the world were shocked when Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket on December 19, 2024. This news came during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, with the series tied at 1-1 after three games. Ashwin’s decision surprised his family and fans, sparking many questions about why he made this choice.
Unexpected Decision During Brisbane Test
Ashwin retired in the middle of the prestigious series, making his announcement at the Gabba. His decision caught everyone off guard, including his father. There were rumors that feelings of humiliation might have led to his retirement.
Immediate Retirement Impact on Team India
Ashwin’s retirement left a big gap in Team India’s bowling. He was replaced by Ravindra Jadeja for the rest of the series. His absence was felt at iconic venues like Melbourne and Sydney, possibly changing the series outcome.
Captain Rohit Sharma’s Response
Team India captain Rohit Sharma supported Ashwin during his retirement announcement. Sharma recognized Ashwin’s huge contributions to Indian cricket over 14 years.
Even though Ashwin retired from international cricket, he plans to keep playing. Ravichandran Ashwin rejoins Chennai Super Kings for the IPL season. This move shows an exciting new chapter in his career.
Ashwin on Return to Chennai: Homecoming Celebrations
Ravichandran Ashwin’s surprise retirement was followed by a joyous return to Chennai. The city welcomed him with open arms, showing their deep admiration for him. His illustrious career has earned him a special place in Chennai’s heart.
Grand Welcome at Chennai Airport
Ashwin’s arrival at Chennai International Airport was spectacular. Fans and officials gathered to greet him, filling the air with excitement and pride. It showed how much he means to Indian cricket and Chennai.
Traditional Flower Petal Reception
Ashwin was showered with flower petals at the airport, in true Chennai style. A live band played festive tunes, adding to the joy. State cricket officials escorted him, highlighting the importance of his return.
Family Reunion Moments
The reunion with his family was the most touching part of Ashwin’s return. His wife Prithi and daughters waited in the car, while his parents welcomed him warmly at home. He was garlanded in a traditional welcome, showing the pride his family feels for his achievements.
| Career Highlights | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Test Wickets | 537 |
| Five-Wicket Hauls | 37 |
| Test Runs | 3503 |
| Test Centuries | 6 |
| ODI Wickets | 156 |
Fans gathered to congratulate Ashwin and ask for autographs. Speculation grew about an Ashwin CSK reunion. Many wondered if he might soon wear the yellow jersey, adding another exciting chapter to his journey in Chennai.
The Emotional Journey Behind the Decision
Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement announcement shocked the cricket world. He made this decision during the Brisbane Test, feeling it was the right time. Ashwin played for 14 years, taking 537 Test wickets, just behind Anil Kumble’s record.
Ashwin’s cricket career was filled with achievements. In 2016, he won the ICC Cricketer of the Year and ICC Test Cricketer of the Year awards. He also excelled in ODIs and T20Is, becoming the first to reach 100 wickets in the World Test Championship.
Ashwin’s decision was emotional. He said memories of his cricket days were fading. This was a sign it was time for a change. He also got exciting news, signing a Rs 9.25 crore contract with Chennai Super Kings for the Ashwin IPL 2023.
“It’s been an emotional journey for many, but for me, it’s a relief. The time felt right to step away and embrace new challenges,” Ashwin remarked, hinting at his future plans in cricket.
As Ashwin ends this chapter, fans look forward to his return in the Ashwin IPL 2023 season. He will wear the yellow jersey again for the Chennai Super Kings, bringing his experience and skill.
Legacy in Numbers: Analyzing Ashwin’s Career Statistics
Ravichandran Ashwin has played cricket for 14 years. He has made a big impact on Indian cricket. His achievements across different formats make him one of the game’s legends.
537 Test Wickets Achievement
Ashwin’s Test career is truly amazing. In 106 Tests, he took 537 wickets with an average of 24. He has 37 five-wicket hauls, showing his consistency and ability to win matches. He also scored 3,503 runs, including five centuries.
Overall International Cricket Records
Ashwin has taken 765 wickets in 287 matches across formats. In ODIs, he took 156 wickets in 116 matches. In T20Is, he claimed 72 scalps in 65 games. He also scored 707 ODI runs and 184 T20I runs.
Comparison with Cricket Legends
Ashwin’s legacy is impressive among cricket legends. He shares the record for most Player of the Match awards in Tests (11) with Muttiah Muralitharan. He is India’s second-highest wicket-taker across formats, rivaling Anil Kumble’s impact.
| Format | Matches | Wickets | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | 106 | 537 | 24.00 |
| ODIs | 116 | 156 | 33.20 |
| T20Is | 65 | 72 | 23.22 |
Fans are excited about the possibility of an Ashwin trade to CSK. His stats show why teams want him. The R Ashwin comeback story is fascinating to cricket fans everywhere.
Father’s Comments and Media Controversy
The cricket world was shocked when Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25. His return to Chennai made headlines, and his father’s comments sparked a big controversy.
Ashwin’s Response to Father’s Interview
In a TV interview, Ashwin’s father hinted at possible humiliation in his son’s retirement. This sparked a media frenzy. Ashwin then spoke out publicly to address the situation.
“Please leave my father alone. He’s not media-trained,” Ashwin pleaded, trying to calm the controversy.
Social Media Reactions
The cricket community exploded with opinions on social media. Fans and critics discussed Ashwin’s career, especially his frequent exclusion from overseas Tests.
Sunil Gavaskar, a cricket legend, criticized Ashwin’s retirement timing. He thought Washington Sundar’s rise might have played a role. This comment added to the debate on team selection and player management.
As the controversy fades, fans are waiting for news on Ashwin’s next steps. Speculation about his role in Ashwin IPL 2023 keeps cricket fans excited.
Future Plans: Chennai Super Kings Connection
Ravichandran Ashwin is set to join the Chennai Super Kings for the next IPL season. This move is a big homecoming for him, as he will wear the iconic yellow jersey again.
CSK fought hard to get Ashwin back. They outbid teams like Lucknow Super Giants, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Rajasthan Royals. They paid a whopping Rs 9.75 crore for his services.
Ashwin’s return to CSK is a big boost for their spin attack. He knows the local conditions well, making him a great asset for the team.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Auction Base Price | Rs 2 crore |
| Final Bid Amount | Rs 9.75 crore |
| Competing Teams | LSG, RCB, RR |
| Winning Franchise | Chennai Super Kings |
Ashwin is thrilled to be back with CSK. He said, “I’m grateful for CSK’s support and looking forward to wearing the yellow jersey again. It feels like coming home after all these years.” This shows the strong bond between Ashwin and CSK, promising a thrilling season for fans.
Cricket Community’s Response to Retirement
The cricket world was shocked when Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement. He did this at Brisbane’s Gabba. Fans and experts from all over shared their thoughts on his sudden choice.
Former Players’ Reactions
Many cricket legends were surprised but admired Ashwin’s career. They compared it to others like Sourav Ganguly and MS Dhoni. Everyone respected Ashwin’s 14-15 years of service to Indian cricket.
Expert Analysis and Commentary
Experts talked about why Ashwin might have retired. They mentioned his limited playing time in SENA countries and the rise of young players. At 38, his retirement made people think about team strategies and who gets picked.
Fan Response Worldwide
Fans had mixed feelings about Ashwin’s retirement. They praised his achievements, like being India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Tests. Social media was filled with tributes and memories of his career.
Some fans wondered if Ashwin would join Chennai Super Kings. Rumors of an Ashwin CSK reunion were buzzing online.
“Ashwin’s retirement marks the end of an era in Indian cricket. His skill and intelligence on the field will be sorely missed,” a prominent cricket commentator remarked.
Career Highlights and Achievements
Ravichandran Ashwin’s cricket career is truly remarkable. His stats and records show he’s a cricket legend. With rumors of Ashwin trade to CSK, let’s review his amazing career.
Test Cricket Milestones
In Test cricket, Ashwin has been outstanding. He’s played 106 matches, scoring 3,503 runs with an average of 25.92. His bowling is impressive, with 537 wickets at an average of 23.95.
Ashwin has 37 five-wicket hauls and 8 ten-wicket match figures. These show his incredible skill.
| Format | Matches | Runs | Wickets |
|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 106 | 3,503 | 537 |
| ODI | 116 | 707 | 156 |
| T20I | 65 | 184 | 72 |
Limited Overs Success
In ODIs and T20Is, Ashwin has made his mark. He’s taken 156 wickets in 116 ODIs and 72 wickets in 65 T20Is. His batting has also been impressive, with 707 runs in ODIs and 184 in T20Is.
Notable Match-Winning Performances
Ashwin’s career is filled with standout performances. He took nine wickets in his debut Test and collected nine five-fors in his first 16 Tests. He’s the fastest to reach 300 Test wickets and second-fastest to 400.
With 30 five-fors and over 90 wickets against Australia and England, Ashwin’s impact is clear. As Ashwin transfer news continues, his cricket legacy is secure. His career has been a lesson in spin bowling and all-round cricket.
Conclusion
Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement ends his 14-year journey in international cricket. He is India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Tests with 537 wickets. His surprise retirement on December 18, 2024, stunned fans and fellow cricketers.
Ashwin’s return to Chennai Super Kings for the 2025 IPL is exciting. He last played for CSK in 2015. His 765 international wickets show his skill as a bowler.
At 38, Ashwin might play in leagues like the BBL or CPL. But BCCI rules might stop him from playing in the IPL. Despite this, his legacy as a top spinner for India is secure.
FAQ
When did Ravichandran Ashwin announce his retirement?
Ashwin announced his retirement on December 19, 2024, during the third Test in Brisbane.
How many Test wickets did Ashwin take in his career?
Ashwin retired as India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Tests with 537 dismissals.
What was Ashwin’s reaction to his retirement decision?
Ashwin felt relieved and satisfied with his decision. He said he has no regrets about his career and retirement choice.
How was Ashwin welcomed back in Chennai?
Ashwin got a grand welcome at Chennai International Airport. He was showered with flower petals and had a live band playing. State cricket association officials escorted him.
Will Ashwin continue playing in the IPL?
Yes, Ashwin plans to keep playing in the IPL. He will return to play for Chennai Super Kings in the upcoming season.
What controversy arose from Ashwin’s father’s comments?
Ashwin’s father made comments on TV that suggested Ashwin was humiliated. This might have led to his retirement. Ashwin asked everyone to leave his father alone, saying he isn’t media-trained.
How many international wickets did Ashwin take across all formats?
Ashwin took a total of 765 international wickets across all formats.
What were some of Ashwin’s career highlights?
Ashwin’s highlights include being part of the 2011 World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy-winning teams. He became India’s second-highest Test wicket-taker. He had a successful 14-year international career.
How did the cricket community respond to Ashwin’s retirement?
The cricket community was shocked by Ashwin’s retirement. Former players and experts discussed the timing and reasons. Many praised his contributions to Indian cricket.
What did Ashwin say about his future in cricket?
Ashwin said his international career is over, but he wants to play cricket for as long as possible. He hopes to play in the IPL with Chennai Super Kings.
