India's star spinner, R Ashwin, has announced his retirement from international cricket after the third Test match against Australia in Brisbane. He made the announcement in a press conference with skipper Rohit Sharma, after the match ended in a draw. With 537 wickets in 106 Tests, Ashwin retires as the second highest wicket-taker for India, only behind Anil Kumble.
R Ashwin Retires as India's Second-Highest Wicket-Taker in Tests
Indian star spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has shocked the cricketing world by announcing his retirement from international cricket after the ongoing third Test against Australia in Brisbane. The 35-year-old made the announcement in a press conference alongside skipper Rohit Sharma, following the match's drawn outcome.
Background
Ashwin burst onto the international scene in 2010 and quickly established himself as one of India's leading bowlers. Known for his astute cricketing brain and ability to extract prodigious turn from the pitch, Ashwin has consistently tormented batsmen worldwide.
Over the years, Ashwin has played a pivotal role in India's cricketing success, including their historic Test series win in Australia in 2018-19 and their victory in the World Test Championship in 2021. He has taken 537 wickets in 106 Tests, making him the second-highest wicket-taker for India, only behind legendary leg-spinner Anil Kumble.
Departure as India's Star Spinner
Ashwin's decision to retire has come as a surprise to many. He remains one of the world's most effective Test bowlers and is widely regarded as one of India's greatest spinners. However, the emergence of younger spinners like Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav may have influenced his decision to step down.
In a statement, Ashwin said, "It has been an honor and a privilege to represent my country. I have enjoyed every moment of my international career and I am proud of what I have been able to achieve."
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. Why did Ashwin retire from international cricket? Ashwin has not explicitly stated his reasons for retiring, but it is speculated that the emergence of younger spinners and his desire to focus on his IPL and domestic cricket commitments may have played a role.
2. Who will replace Ashwin in the Indian Test team? Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav are the most likely candidates to fill Ashwin's void in the Indian Test team.
3. How does Ashwin compare to Anil Kumble? Anil Kumble is India's highest wicket-taker in Tests with 619 dismissals. Ashwin is second with 537 wickets, but he has a better strike rate and has taken his wickets in fewer Tests.
4. What are Ashwin's plans after retirement? Ashwin is expected to continue playing in the Indian Premier League and domestic cricket. He has also expressed interest in coaching or mentorship roles in the future.
5. Will Ashwin return to international cricket? Ashwin has not ruled out a return to international cricket in the future, but it remains unlikely given his age and the emergence of younger spinners in India.
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