India’s star all-rounder, Ravichandran Ashwin, has officially announced his retirement from international cricket with immediate effect. The 38-year-old veteran revealed his decision shortly after the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which ended in a draw. Ashwin participated in only one of the first three matches of the series against Australia, delivering a spell of 1 for 53 during the day-night Test in Adelaide.
Ashwin retires as India’s second-highest wicket-taker in both international and Test cricket. Since making his Test debut against the West Indies in Delhi on November 6, 2011, he has been a vital force for India. Over his illustrious career, Ashwin scalped 537 wickets in 106 Tests, second only to Anil Kumble’s 619 wickets among Indian bowlers. He also showcased his batting prowess with six centuries and 14 fifties in the longest format.
Beyond Tests, Ashwin had an impactful white-ball career, playing 116 ODIs and 65 T20 Internationals, where he took 156 and 72 wickets, respectively.
While bidding farewell to international cricket, Ashwin remains committed to T20 leagues. He will continue to play in tournaments, including the IPL, where he is set to represent the Chennai Super Kings in the 2025 season.
The cricketing world bids adieu to one of India’s most iconic all-rounders, whose legacy as a match-winner will inspire generations to come.