Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, one of the greatest cricketers of his generation, announced his retirement from international cricket following the third Test between India and Australia at the Gabba, which ended in a draw on Wednesday. The news marked the end of an illustrious career that left an indelible legacy in Indian cricket.

Ashwin's retirement drew heartfelt tributes from teammates. Indian pacer Mohammed Shami took to Instagram to pen an emotional message for his long-time teammate, stating,

“Today, we honor Ravichandran Ashwin remarkable career as he embarks on a well-deserved retirement. His contributions and dedication have left an indelible mark on us all. Ashvin embarks on a well-deserved retirement, we honor his dedicated service and contributions. May this new chapter bring fulfillment and joy in all future endeavors. @rashwin99”

Ravichandran Ashwin's illustrious career

Known for his unparalleled skill and resilience, Ashwin has been a stalwart in Test cricket for India since he debuted for India in tests in 2011. With over 500 wickets to his name, he became the second-highest wicket-taker for India in Tests and consistently delivered match-winning performances. Beyond his bowling heroics, the 38-year-old also proved to be a dependable batsman, scoring crucial centuries in challenging situations.

The veteran's exceptional performances earned him the No.1 spot in the ICC Test Bowler Rankings multiple times, cementing his status as one of the greatest bowlers in the world. His ability to adapt, innovate, and dominate on diverse pitches made him an invaluable asset for the Indian team.

Ashwin’s absence will undoubtedly be felt deeply by the Indian cricket team and fans. As he steps into a new chapter, his legacy as a world-class spinner, a dependable batsman, and a dedicated team player will continue to inspire generations. His contributions have left an everlasting mark on the game, and he will always be remembered as one of India's finest cricketers.