Former Indian captain and cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar voices his worries about Ravichandran Ashwin's surprise retirement mid-series, drawing parallels to the consequences of MS Dhoni's similar decision during the 2014-15 Test series in Australia. With Ashwin's absence leaving a void in India's spinning attack, Gavaskar points out the impact on team planning and selections, further questioning the timing of the announcement. Meanwhile, Ashwin's state-mate and Indian teammate Washington Sundar shares a heartfelt tribute to the allrounder, expressing his admiration and gratitude for Ashwin's mentorship and inspiration.
Ravichandran Ashwin's Retirement: A Sudden Decision with Far-Reaching Consequences
Indian cricket has been rocked by the sudden retirement of star spinner Ravichandran Ashwin from Test cricket. The decision, announced mid-series against Australia, has drawn parallels to the retirement of MS Dhoni during the 2014-15 Test series in Australia.
Background
Ravichandran Ashwin is one of the most successful spinners in the history of Indian cricket. He has taken 442 wickets in 85 Tests, and is known for his guile, consistency, and ability to pick up wickets in all conditions.
In recent months, Ashwin had been struggling with form and fitness. He was dropped from the Indian team for the T20 World Cup, and had a disappointing performance in the first two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia.
Impact of Ashwin's Retirement
Ashwin's retirement has left a huge void in India's spinning attack. He was the team's lead spinner and was expected to play a vital role in the upcoming Test series against Australia and the World Test Championship final.
His absence has forced India to rethink their team planning and selections. They are now likely to field a relatively inexperienced spin attack, which could make them vulnerable to the Australian batsmen.
Reactions
Former Indian captain and cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has expressed his concerns about Ashwin's retirement. He believes that it could have a similar impact to MS Dhoni's retirement, which left India struggling to find a replacement wicketkeeper-batsman.
Ashwin's state-mate and Indian teammate Washington Sundar has paid tribute to the allrounder, expressing his admiration and gratitude for Ashwin's mentorship and inspiration.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Why did Ravichandran Ashwin retire from Test cricket?
Ashwin has not publicly stated his reasons for retiring from Test cricket. However, it is believed that a combination of factors, including form, fitness, and personal reasons, contributed to his decision.
2. What is the impact of Ashwin's retirement on India's Test team?
Ashwin's retirement has left a huge void in India's spinning attack. He was the team's lead spinner and was expected to play a vital role in the upcoming Test series against Australia and the World Test Championship final.
3. Who will replace Ashwin in India's Test team?
India has several young spinners in their squad, including Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar Patel. It is likely that one of these players will be given the opportunity to fill Ashwin's void.
4. Was Ashwin's retirement a surprise?
Yes, Ashwin's retirement came as a surprise to many. He had not publicly expressed any intention to retire, and was expected to continue playing for India for several more years.
5. What does the future hold for Ravichandran Ashwin?
Ashwin is likely to continue playing limited-overs cricket for India. He is still one of the best spinners in the world, and could be a valuable asset to the team in the upcoming ODI World Cup and T20 World Cup.
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