Brett Lee, Australia’s legendary fast bowler, said he was taken aback by India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin’s announcement of his retirement from international cricket following the drawn Test in Brisbane, adding that he will be remembered as one of the game’s greatest players. Shortly after the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test in Brisbane ended in a tie at the Gabba on Wednesday, Ashwin revealed in a post-match press conference that he would retire from international cricket effective immediately.
His final international game was the day-night Test in Adelaide, where he took 1-53 in 18 overs. “This guy is one of the best players in the game. I believe Graeme Swann was the last spinner to retire midway through a series. Brad Haddin, a former Australian goalkeeper, claimed that Ashwin had earned the right to terminate his 14-year international career for India. “More will come out when Ashwin has his turn to talk; just reading between the lines, it appeared like he was upset with the spinning options that had been adjusted in the first three Test matches. “To me, he was a student of the game, always looking for ways to improve … he’s earned the right.”Ashwin, who hails from Chennai, finishes his career with 537 wickets at an average of 24 in 106 Tests, making him India’s second highest wicket-taker after renowned leg-spinner Anil Kumble. He has hit six Test hundreds and 14 fifties with the bat. His final international game was the day-night Test in Adelaide, when he scored 1-53. Ashwin also played 116 One-Day Internationals for India, taking 156 wickets and was part of the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy winning squads. Ashwin also played 65 T20Is and collected 72 wickets.
Former England captain Michael Vaughan stated that he will miss seeing Ashwin bowl. “He may have been told that he will not be appearing in any future episodes of this series, which is understandable; yet, he chose to go on his own terms. “I’m going to miss his bowling, that flight, carom balls, and his ability to bowl in all conditions… (in India), a batter has no chance when you’re facing that quality.” Australia’s skipper, Pat Cummins, too paid respect to Ashwin following the game. “A bit of a surprise, but he has been a standout performer for them. One of the greats who has played extensively during the last decade or more.He has had a fantastic career, and our change room holds him in high regard.”
