Chennai: Veteran Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has clarified that while he is stepping away from international cricket, his cricketing journey is far from over.
Speaking to the media here on Thursday, he stated, "I am going to play for CSK and don't be surprised if I try and aspire to play for as long as I can. I don't think Ashwin the cricketer is done; I think Ashwin the Indian cricketer has probably called it time. That's it."
Ashwin's decision comes after an illustrious career that saw him establish himself as one of the finest spinners in the world.
Replying to a question, Ashwin remarked, "It's not. It's emotional for a lot of people. It will be emotional, maybe it will sink in. But for me, it's a great sense of relief and satisfaction. It had been running in my head for a while, but it was very instinctive. I felt it on day 4 and called it on day 5.”
The announcement has sparked a wave of nostalgia and admiration among cricket enthusiasts, with tributes pouring in for Ashwin’s contributions to the game. On his arrival at his residence in the city, he was greeted by a warm reception from fans and well-wishers.
Fans gathered to celebrate the cricketer, expressing their gratitude for his years of dedication and service to Indian cricket.
Ashwin’s journey in international cricket has been nothing short of remarkable. With over 700 international wickets across formats, he is widely regarded as one of the greatest off-spinners in cricket history. His performances in Tests, particularly in home conditions, have been pivotal in several memorable victories for India.
As Ashwin transitions into this new phase, the cricketing fraternity and his legion of fans will undoubtedly cherish the legacy he leaves behind. His tactical acumen, relentless work ethic, and passion for the game have made him an icon, inspiring countless aspiring cricketers worldwide.
