Ravichandran Ashwin’s sudden retirement midway through the series on Wednesday shocked the entire cricket world. It was a hug between Ashwin and Virat Kohli that revealed the story on day five of the Brisbane Test, as India and Australia worked hard. While Ashwin’s decision certainly came as a big surprise, cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle’s post suggests that the off-spinner’s departure has set a benchmark for the rest of the team. The likes of Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja and Virat Kohli are all on the wrong side as they enter their 30s. They still have what it takes to perform at the top level, and some might argue that Ashwin has done that too.
Over the years, Ashwin has seen many spinners preferred over him in all formats. But never before has an off-spinner been selected ahead of him. With the Indian team management, led by Gautam Gambhir, choosing Washington Sundar for the Perth Test in the absence of Rohit Sharma, the message was clear to Ashwin, who would probably be the best player in the same position. I did what anyone would do.
However, Harsha Bhogle pointed out the fact that by allowing Ashwin to retire, the BCCI selection committee sent a loud and clear message to others in his similar position. It is.
“By letting Ashwin retire and playing if selected, the selectors have set a standard for other players. Interesting times ahead,” Harsha wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
By retiring Ashwin and saying he would play if selected, the selectors set a standard for other players. There will be interesting times ahead.
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) December 19, 2024
A report by Cricbuzz also suggests that the 2024-25 season could see a 2008-like episode, with many of India’s veteran stars retiring.
Even in the post-match press conference, Ashwin, sitting alongside captain Rohit Sharma, said he still has a bit of punch left in him but he wants to use it in club cricket. Along the way, Ashwin dropped major hints about how things have changed for him on the international stage.
“I don’t want to take too much time, but today is my last day as an Indian cricketer playing at international level and in all formats. I feel like I have a little bit of energy left as a cricketer.” I want to manifest that and maybe showcase it in club level cricket, but today will be my last day and I’ve had a lot of fun,” Ashwin said.
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