Indian off-spinner R Ashwin announced his retirement from all formats of international cricket on Wednesday, December 18. Addressing a press conference alongside captain Rohit Sharma at the Gabba in Brisbane, Ashwin confirmed that this was his final day representing India.

"This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats at the international level," Ashwin said, expressing his gratitude to his teammates and the BCCI. "I feel there’s still a bit of cricket left in me, and I look forward to showcasing it at the club level. It has been a fun and fulfilling journey, creating countless memories alongside Rohit and many of my teammates."

The announcement came after the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy ended in a draw. Captain Rohit Sharma confirmed that Ashwin would leave the team and return to India on Thursday, December 19.

Ashwin thanked his teammates, including Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, and Cheteshwar Pujara, for their support. "I cannot forget to mention the slip fielders who took those catches that contributed to my wickets. I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who has been a part of this journey," he said.

Ashwin also extended his appreciation to the Australian cricket team, calling them "fierce competitors." In a heartfelt moment, he declined to take questions, saying, "This is a very emotional moment for me."

A Stellar Career in Test Cricket

Ashwin’s international career began in 2011 against the West Indies, and he quickly became a cornerstone of India’s Test team. Known for his sharp cricketing intellect, precise variations, and ability to outthink batsmen, Ashwin played 106 Tests, claiming an impressive 537 wickets at a stellar average.

At home, Ashwin was virtually unbeatable, often leading India to victory on spin-friendly tracks. His performances in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia have been particularly memorable, with numerous five-wicket hauls and match-winning contributions.

Ashwin’s all-round abilities were also on display with the bat, where he notched six Test centuries and delivered vital runs in challenging conditions, offering depth to India’s lower order.

Accolades and Legacy

Ashwin was named the ICC Cricketer of the Year and ICC Test Cricketer of the Year in 2016, becoming only the third Indian to win the prestigious Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy. He has consistently held the No. 1 spot in the ICC Test bowling rankings, first achieving the milestone in 2015 and regularly reclaiming it with his dominant performances.

The off-spinner was also part of India’s 2011 World Cup-winning squad, cementing his place in Indian cricket history. His contributions with both ball and bat have left a lasting legacy, ensuring he will be remembered as one of the greatest spinners in the history of the game.

Retirement Speculation Confirmed

Speculation about Ashwin’s retirement surfaced during the third Test when he was seen sharing an emotional moment with Virat Kohli in the dressing room during a rain interruption. The rumors were put to rest shortly after the match when Ashwin made his announcement.

As Ashwin transitions to playing club cricket, the cricketing world bids farewell to a true stalwart who redefined off-spin bowling and left an indelible mark on Indian cricket.