"I was very disappointed with the way Ravi Ashwin left" Anil Kumble feels off-spinner deserved grand farewell

Ravi Ashwin retired with 537 test wickets.

Veteran Indian off-spinner Ravi Ashwin officially announced his retirement from international cricket on December 18, 2024.

The 38-year-old all-rounder made the announcement during the post-match press conference alongside skipper Rohit Sharma after the conclusion of third Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) test in Brisbane.

Ashwin ended his international career as India’s second-highest wicket-taker in test cricket, with 537 wickets trailing behind Anil Kumble, who took 619 wickets. He ranks eighth for the most test wickets in history.

Ashwin’s retirement sparked speculation about whether he was pushed into the decision by the management. The Indian team picked Washington Sundar above the senior off-spinner in the first test at Perth. Ashwin returned to the playing XI in Adelaide but was replaced by Ravindra Jadeja in Brisbane.

Kumble has shared his thoughts on Ashwin’s retirement, discussing the importance of giving proper farewells to iconic players. He has also acknowledged Ashwin’s career of immense highs.

Anil Kumble shares his disappointment over Ravi Ashwin’s retirement.

Speaking to Sportstar, Anil Kumble expressed his disappointment over Ravi Ashwin going out unceremoniously, stating that players who have contributed so much to the nation deserve a proper farewell.

Kumble said, “Players who have contributed for such a long period deserve a grand farewell. They need to be sat down and offered an appropriate plan on how you want them to leave the game. I was very disappointed with the way Ashwin left.“

The former India coach highlighted that many former cricketers also missed out on well-deserved farewells and praised the 38-year-old off-spinner for his significant achievements.

Kumble added “Many cricketers in the past missed out on a farewell, too. The kind of benchmarks he has set won’t be easy for anyone to live up to. He served Indian cricket with distinction.“

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