“I have never been…”: Ravichandran Ashwin reveals why he chose to retire during IND vs AUS series

Indian cricket legend Ravichandran Ashwin opened up about his decision to retire, revealing he had considered it several times in the past. He finally decided to step away when he felt his creative instincts had no future or direction. “I’ve never been a person who holds onto things, I’ve never felt insecure in life,” Ashwin said during an interaction with Sky Sports. This is his first-ever interview after retiring. The Spinner believes that nothing is in anyone’s control. “I don’t believe what is mine today is going to be mine tomorrow. That has probably been one of my elevating factors all these years.” he added. Adding to the context, Ashwin announced his retirement on December 18, shortly after the third IND vs AUS Brisbane Test ended in a draw. He retired as the seventh-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, with an impressive 765 wickets across all formats during a 14-year career.

I don’t believe in people celebrating me, says Ashwin

Ashwin emphasised that he prefers to leave things behind without seeking attention. “I always wanted to leave things behind as calmly as I can because I do not believe in people celebrating me, I don’t believe in the attention we get sometimes in India. It is the game that always stood ahead of me, all the time.” he stated.

“I did contemplate (retirement) a few times. For me, the day I woke up and felt the creative side of me didn’t have a future or direction, that would be the day I would give it up. I suddenly felt that creative side didn’t have a lot of upsides to explore,” Ashwin added.

A journey without regrets

Ashwin believes that he has no regrets now. “I’ve got no regrets because I’ve had to do it the hard way, but it has left me with the idea that the game has been my calling,” Ashwin reflected. “People find their calling at different stages of their life, but I’m so glad this game found me and it has given me meaning to life.” he concluded.

Test cricket is a life teacher

Ashwin credited Test cricket for shaping his life, saying, “I’ve played Test cricket for so long it’s even taught me how to construct and live my life. It’s the most beautiful thing that has happened for me.” With a remarkable career and an enduring legacy, Ashwin has left behind an indelible mark on Indian cricket.