Ravichandran Ashwin, one of the most cerebral cricketers of his generation, has always been known for his strategic gameplay and innovative approach on the field. However, his decision to retire from international cricket without the pomp of a farewell Test has stirred discussions, debates, and admiration for his unique perspective on the game. In a candid revelation on his YouTube channel, R Ashwin shares why he chose to step away from the Indian Test team without the traditional send-off, highlighting his integrity towards cricket and his future aspirations.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s Decision to Retire Without a Farewell
“I want to play more cricket. Where is the place? Obviously not in the Indian dressing room but from somewhere else. I want to be honest with the game. Imagine if I want to play the farewell Test but I do not deserve a place. Imagine, I am only in the team because it is my farewell Test. I don’t want that. I felt there was more strength in my cricket. I could have played more but it is always better to finish when people ask ‘why’ and not ‘why not’,” Ashwin explained. His words reflect a deep respect for the sport, where merit and performance dictate inclusion, not sentiment or ceremony. Ashwin’s choice underscores a rare humility and a commitment to the integrity of cricket, where one’s place in the team should be based on merit, not nostalgia.
Exploring New Avenues for Creativity
The veteran, who has amassed 765 international wickets across three formats, also shared that his decision was an instinctive one, driven by the feeling that his work in international cricket was complete. “I think a lot. What to do in life. You all need to understand, that this happens instinctively. If someone gets to know, that their job is done, once that thinking comes, there is nothing to think,” he remarked. Ashwin felt his creativity on the international stage had reached its zenith, and he was eager to explore other avenues to express his cricketing acumen.
In his last Test, Ashwin managed one wicket and scored 29 runs across two innings, a modest contribution but one that came in the context of his decision to step back. His choice to not play in the first and third Tests of the Border-Gavaskar series, and the uncertainty about playing in the subsequent matches, painted a picture of a player at peace with his career trajectory, ready to shift focus rather than linger for the sake of a ceremonial exit.
A Philosophical View on Farewells
Ashwin’s perspective on farewells is both philosophical and pragmatic. “What difference will this make if I came out with the ball and people are clapping? How long will people talk about it? When social media was not there, people talked about it and forgot after one week. There is no need for a farewell. The game has given us a lot and we have played with a lot of happiness,” he concluded. This statement encapsulates his belief that cricket, at its core, is about the joy of the game itself rather than the accolades or ceremonies that accompany it. Ashwin’s dismissal of the significance of a farewell reflects his focus on the essence of cricket – the moments of play, the challenges, and the personal growth rather than the public recognition.
Impact on Cricket and Legacy
Ashwin’s departure from the international scene without a farewell game is not just a personal choice but also a moment for cricket to reflect on how we celebrate the careers of our heroes. His legacy, marked by innovation in spin bowling, strategic acumen, and a record that speaks for itself, needs no grand send-off to be remembered. His approach might encourage a shift in how cricketers view their retirement, prioritizing personal satisfaction and integrity over public spectacle.
His decision also opens discussions about the role of farewells in sports. Should they be about celebrating the individual, or should they honor the sport itself? Ashwin’s choice to step away quietly, focusing on the game’s integrity, might set a new standard or at least provide a different perspective on how athletes conclude their careers.
Looking Forward
Ashwin’s journey post-international cricket is far from over. His comments about seeking new avenues for his creativity suggest a man still passionate about cricket, just in different capacities. Whether through coaching, commentary, or playing in domestic leagues, Ashwin’s involvement in cricket will continue, perhaps in roles where he can further influence the game’s evolution.
In Summary
Ravichandran Ashwin’s decision to retire without a farewell Test is a testament to his character, his love for cricket, and his understanding of its true essence. His reflections offer a window into the mind of a player who has always played the game on his terms, valuing the journey over the destination. As fans, we might have missed the chance for one last ovation, but Ashwin’s contributions to cricket will be celebrated far beyond any single game or moment. His legacy, built on skill, intelligence, and an unwavering commitment to the spirit of the game, will inspire future generations, making his farewell not an end, but a new beginning.
