Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has shed light on his surprising retirement from international cricket, revealing that it was entirely a personal decision and not influenced by external pressure. The veteran cricketer, who shocked fans and experts alike by retiring midway through the 2024–25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, has now broken his silence on what prompted the call.
Ashwin, 39, called time on his illustrious international career after the third Test in Brisbane, leaving many to speculate about possible underlying reasons. However, the Chennai-born spinner has now cleared the air.
“It was a personal call, and no one forced me,” Ashwin said while speaking at a recent event. “There comes a time in every athlete’s life when you just know it’s time. For me, that moment arrived in Brisbane.”
Ashwin’s departure marked the end of an era in Indian cricket. Known for his guile, game-awareness, and ever-evolving skill set, he finishes as one of India’s most successful Test bowlers. His contribution to the longest format, especially in home conditions, remains unparalleled in the modern game.
Following his Test retirement, Ashwin also made the decision to step away from the Indian Premier League (IPL) in August 2025, drawing curtains on a professional career that spanned over 15 years.
While fans were hoping he’d continue at least in the T20 format, Ashwin felt it was the right time to move on.
“The IPL has been a huge part of my journey, and I owe a lot to the tournament,” he said earlier this year. “But again, it felt like the right moment to say goodbye.”
Ashwin’s retirement has undoubtedly left a void – not just in the Indian team, but in the global cricketing community that admired his intelligence and adaptability. Yet, the man himself seems content with his decision and is looking forward to contributing to the game in different ways.
As Indian cricket looks to groom its next generation of spinners, Ashwin’s legacy will continue to inspire.
Also Read: IND-W vs SA-W, Women’s World Cup 2025: When and where to watch India vs South Africa match?
