Ravichandran Ashwin, the famed Indian cricket player, has just retired from the Indian Premier League (IPL). His storied career in the tournament started way back in the very first season in 2008. At 38 years of age, Ashwin has decided to turn his attention to international franchise leagues. We believe that this decision will open a very important and exciting new chapter in his cricketing journey.
Across IPL, Ashwin represented five different franchises. He is best known for his stint with Chennai Super Kings, winning two titles during 2010 and 2011 seasons. During his IPL career, he racked up 187 wickets, making him fifth all-time on the IPL wicket-taker list. His incredible talent as an off-spinner made him a coveted match-winner and valued member of each side he participated in.
Ashwin’s influence on cricket goes far beyond the IPL. In addition to his storied domestic success, he’s found tremendous success in international formats. In Tencricket, he has 537 wickets with a brilliant average of 24 in Test cricket. This has now made him India’s second-highest wicket-taker, only behind Anil Kumble’s tally of 619 wickets. He has taken 156 wickets in ODI format. He has taken 72 wickets in T20 matches, displaying his ability in all three formats.
In December, Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket, ensuring his legacy as one of the game’s greats. At the time of his retirement, he was the seventh all-time leading wicket-taker in Test history. To the disappointment of many fans, his abrupt decision to retire from the IPL has come as a shocker. Yet through all of this, Ashwin keeps positive as he looks forward.
In a poignant social media post, Ashwin declared his retirement from the IPL. He conveyed that same excitement about being in a new place and seizing more opportunities to come.
“My time as an IPL cricketer comes to a close today but my time as an explorer of the game around various leagues begins today.” – Ravichandran Ashwin
He reflected on the nature of endings and beginnings in life:
“They say every ending will have a new start.” – Ravichandran Ashwin
With Ashwin having announced his retirement from the IPL, that era is officially over. He charmed audiences with his unconventional bowling style that revolutionized the game and strategic acumen that defined his influential career. He announced Monday that he’s pursuing opportunities in overseas leagues. This decision reflects his commitment to continue driving the efforts to grow and diversify the sport in new ways.
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