India’s legendary off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has announced his retirement from international cricket, marking the end of a 14-year illustrious career. The announcement came after the conclusion of the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at Brisbane’s Gabba. Ashwin, who debuted in 2010, has been a cornerstone of India’s cricketing success, finishing as the nation’s second-highest Test wicket-taker with 537 scalps in 106 matches. The Tamil Nadu spinner was also instrumental in India’s ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy victories in 2011 and 2013. With 765 international wickets across all formats, Ashwin is second only to Anil Kumble among Indian bowlers.

The 38-year-old spinner’s final moments in the dressing room were poignant, as he shared an emotional conversation with Virat Kohli during a rain delay on Day 5 of the Gabba Test. Known for his tactical brilliance, Ashwin has dominated the World Test Championship, becoming the first bowler to record 100 wickets in the competition and currently leading the chart with 195 dismissals. Nathan Lyon, his Australian counterpart, praised Ashwin for his exceptional skills and conduct, highlighting the mutual respect between the two cricketers. Despite retiring from international cricket, Ashwin will continue to play franchise cricket, recently securing a ₹9.75 crore deal with Chennai Super Kings in the IPL 2025 Mega Auction.

Ashwin’s retirement leaves a significant void in India’s bowling lineup, as he exits at the peak of his prowess. His remarkable contributions to Indian cricket, both on and off the field, have cemented his legacy as one of the greatest spinners in the sport’s history. Fans and fellow cricketers alike celebrated his career achievements while expressing sadness over his departure from international cricket.