Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket on December 18 but his contribution to Indian cricket will always be remembered. In a rain-impacted final, India’s chances of defending a modest total of 129 looked somewhat uncertain, but in the game, Ravichandran Ashwin stepped up with a phenomenal performance, as he contributed to his side’s victorious five-run triumph.
WATCH- Ashwin’s Match-Winning Spell In Champions Trophy 2013
Ashwin is a most underrated ODI player 🤔🤔
Ashwin's match Winning spell in the Champions Trophy final 2013.
He deserves more recognition and celebration as a white ball cricketer.#AshwinRetires #ashwinretirement#RavichandranAshwinpic.twitter.com/Xy7laDjQl7---Advertisement---— Cricket360 (@CrickTak) December 18, 2024
Early Breakthroughs
Ashwin started with a great display of control and accuracy. He had figures of 2-0-6-2 by the end of his first two overs as he picked up two quick wickets to send Jonathan Trott and Joe Root back into the pavilion. Both were important, as Trott’s dismissal early on set back England’s top order, while Root’s dismissal further cramped their chase. Ashwin’s tight lines and variations put pressure on the English batsmen right from the word go.
Crucial Maiden Over
Ashwin was gaining pressure, and this was his third over when it became a turning point in the game. It was a maiden over, this time in the middle of the innings, and England’s momentum was stalled as India gained a stronger hold on the game.
The Final Over Heroics
With 14 runs needed off the final over, captain MS Dhoni turned to his trusted spinner for the final blow. Ashwin, known for composure under pressure, did not crack.
Also Read: Ravichandran Ashwin Announces Retirement From International Cricket
He bowled a tight over, maintaining his accuracy and denying England big boundaries. His composure under the intense pressure of defending a small total was vital.
