"Where is the place?" Ravi Ashwin reveals why he didn't ask for farewell test

Ravi Ashwin retired from international cricket on December 18, 2024.

Ravi Ashwin made a shocking decision to retire midway through the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25. He announced his decision after the conclusion of the third test of the series at the Gabba in Brisbane.

The experienced Indian off-spinner ended his career with 765 international wickets – 537 in tests, 156 in ODIs, and 72 in T20Is. In addition to his impressive bowling stats, the 38-year-old all-rounder scored 3,503 runs in test cricket at an average of 25.75, with the help of six centuries and 14 half-centuries.

Ashwin’s contribution in limited-overs cricket is often overlooked. The 38-year-old featured regularly for India between 2011 and 2017, playing crucial roles in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 and ICC Champions Trophy 2013 campaigns.

Following Ashwin’s retirement announcement, fans took to social media to share emotional tributes. Many, including India’s World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev and Anil Kumble, opined that the legendary off-spinner deserved a farewell test match.

Ashwin has now shared his views on not getting or not asking for a farewell game.

Ravi Ashwin reveals why he didn’t ask for farewell test

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin mentioned that he understood he was not a first-choice player in the Indian test team on SENA tours – India’s next test series is in June in England – and hence didn’t ask for a farewell test.

He said, “I want to play more cricket. [But] Where is the place? Obviously not in the Indian dressing room, but somewhere else. I want to be honest with the game. Imagine if I wanted to play a farewell test but didn’t deserve a place. Imagine I was only selected because it was my farewell test. I don’t want that.”

Ashwin added that grand farewells are temporary and emphasized that the game has already given him lasting joy and happiness.

He added, “What difference does it make if I come out with the ball and people applaud? How long will that applause last? In the pre-social media era, people would talk about it and forget within a week. There’s no need for a farewell. The game has given us so much joy, and we have played with happiness.” 

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