Sunil Gavaskar on Ashwin: Former Indian captain and veteran opener Sunil Gavaskar (Sunil Gavaskar on Ashwin) reacted to the impact of Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement decision on the team and said that the all-rounder did the same as MS Dhoni. Did during the 2014-15 Australia series. Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket immediately after the Gabba Test draw in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (Ravichandran Ashwin announces retirement from international cricket). Gavaskar compared MS Dhoni’s decision to retire in a series during the 2014–15 Test series in Australia, arguing that such decisions disrupt the team’s planning.
Photo Credit: BCCI
Gavaskar told the broadcasters, “He could have said that I will not be available for selection for India after the series is over. That’s what happens, similarly when MS Dhoni retired at the end of the third Test in the 2014-15 series. So one player is left.”
He said, “The selection committee has selected many players for a tour with a purpose. If someone gets injured then they can select from the reserve players in the team. So, Sydney is a place where there is a lot of opportunity for spinners.” Help is available. You never know what the Melbourne pitch will be like. That’s it, it’s not normal. Is.”
When asked if Washington Sundar was being groomed to replace Ashwin, Gavaskar admitted that there was a possibility of that happening. “Maybe Washington Sundar is ahead of him. Rohit mentioned that Sundar is flying tomorrow. So, this marks the end of Ashwin as an international cricketer. He has been a great cricketer.”
Additionally, Sundar penned an emotional post for state-mate Ashwin on Instagram after the all-rounder’s retirement. “More than just a teammate – Ash Anna, you have been an inspiration, a mentor and a true champion of the game. It has been an honor to share the field and dressing room with you.”
Sundar said in his post, “Coming from the same state of Tamil Nadu, I have grown up watching you play from nearby corners of Chepauk and playing against you and with you. Every moment has been a privilege on and off the field.” The lessons learned from both places are something I will always carry with me, wishing you success and happiness in whatever comes next.
Ashwin’s retirement comes at a crucial juncture in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where the series is tied at 1-1 with the Gabba Test being drawn. His absence has left a void in India’s bowling armoury, especially as they prepare for the upcoming Tests in Melbourne and Sydney, traditionally spinner-friendly venues.
