Delhi: Whenever Ravichandran Ashwin’s name is taken, that memorable match against Pakistan in the 2022 T20 World Cup definitely comes to mind. In that match, India needed two runs on the last ball. Ashwin showed excellent composure in that moment of pressure. Mohammad Nawaz let the ball go wide and played a simple shot on the next ball to give India victory. This moment will always be remembered in cricket history.
‘Not Rohit, Virat or anyone else, I am the real MVP’, Ashwin said from the heart
Now, Ashwin said goodbye to international cricket during the series against Australia. The announcement of his retirement has made the fans emotional. Ashwin was not only an excellent bowler but also a deeply thinking cricketer. His thinking and ability to understand the game made him different from other players.
Cricketer like chess master
Ashwin was not just a cricketer on the field but also like a chess player. He planned every ball, every situation by thinking in advance. Ashwin, who took 537 wickets in 106 Tests, led India to many memorable victories. There were many such occasions in his career when he made the impossible possible with his intelligence and skill.
Ashwin has always been India’s main bowler on home grounds. He took 353 wickets in India. But even on foreign pitches, where spinners do not get much help, Ashwin proved himself. Be it the dusty pitch of Chennai or the green field of Southampton, Ashwin adapted everywhere.
philosopher of cricket
Ashwin was not just a player but a philosopher of cricket. His deep perspective towards the game was reflected in his interviews and press conferences. He did not consider cricket as just a game of bat and ball, but considered it a mental and strategic competition. He added new techniques and ideas to his game. His carrom ball and different variations always troubled the batsmen.
protests and questions
There were many contradictions in Ashwin’s career. He became India’s second highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, but he did not get many opportunities in ODIs and T20s. Many times questions were raised on his selection, especially on foreign pitches. Despite this, Ashwin answered the critics with his game every time. Ashwin always remained in favor of rules. The biggest example of this is the runout of Jos Buttler by ‘mankading’ in the 2019 IPL. This controversy put forward Ashwin’s principles.
a unique legacy
Ashwin’s retirement is a big loss for Indian cricket. It will not be easy to replace him. He was not only a great bowler but also a leader and inspiration. His absence will definitely be missed by the team.
Who will fill this place now?
After Ashwin’s departure, the question arises – is there any player in Indian cricket who understands the game like him and can contribute at the same level? In the coming time, it will be interesting to see who will be able to fill the vacant place of Ashwin.
Ashwin’s retirement is not just the end of a career but also the end of a philosophy of cricket. He showed us that in sports, both mind and heart are equally important.