Ravi Ashwin breaks silence on international cricket retirement; Reveals reason behind his sudden call

Ravi Ashwin retired from international cricket with 537 test, 156 ODI and 72 T20I wickets.

Former Indian spin-bowling all-rounder Ravi Ashwin has opened up about his decision to retire from international cricket in conversation with his former teammate and ex-India coach Rahul Dravid. The two were conversing on Ashwin’s YouTube show “Kutti Stories with Ashwin.”

Ravi Ashwin, only the second Indian bowler to take 500-plus test wickets, announced his retirement from international cricket in the middle of India’s tour of Australia, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25.

Washington Sundar was preferred over Ravi Ashwin for the first test in Perth, and the decision was criticized by many. Ashwin did play the second test in Adelaide, but then shockingly announced his decision to retire before the Brisbane test in a press conference.

Speaking with Dravid about the final chapters of Wall’s career, the off-spinner was asked why he left the game in such a low-key manner.

“I think it was just the time and where I stood in my life, right? I think I was pretty old, I must admit. But going on tours, and you know, having to just sit out a lot more, eventually got to me,” Ashwin stated.

Both Ashwin and his supporters were frustrated by his propensity to be benched without warning, especially while on international tours when he was the victim of teams being selected based on circumstances.

“I pictured myself retiring at 34-35.”- Ravichandran Ashwin

After the Melbourne test, Ashwin declared his immediate retirement. But he made it clear in this interview that he didn’t have a grudge against the squad; rather, it was a personal choice to give him more time with his family.

“I mean, not in terms of not wanting to contribute to the team, but you’re thinking if I would rather be at home, spending time with children. They are also growing up, and what am I actually doing? In my head, I always decided that I would retire at 34-35,” he further revealed.

Although Ashwin did withdraw from international cricket, he insisted that he was still interested in playing domestic cricket and would be content to do so.

For more updates, follow Khel Now Cricket on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.