Former Indian spinner Anil Kumble has expressed disappointment in Ashwin’s retirement amid the ongoing Border Gavaskar Trophy. On December 18, Ravichandran Ashwin announced his international retirement before exceeding Anil Kumble’s record of 619 Test wickets.
After the third test ended in a draw, Ashwin made his shocking revelation of his retirement in the post-match conference. Despite being shocked by the announcement Kumble congratulated Ashwin.
“Congratulations, Ash, on a fantastic career. You’ve been a champion bowler for India, a champion all-rounder for India. You’ll certainly be missed. It’s not that easy, carrying that kind of expectation day in and day out.”
“You’ve done it right throughout your career. You’ve been a match-winner for India, and Team India will certainly miss you,” said Anil Kumble in a video.
Ashwin has previously stated that he will be retire when he hits 618 wickets. But with 537 wickets he become India’s second highest wicket taker.
“I, for one, am a bit disappointed that you ended your career today at the international level. Ideally, I would have wanted to see you go beyond 619, but you have your reasons for that,” Kumble added.
“All the best to you in your second chapter. And I am sure it will be as glorious as chapter one. So, Ash, here’s to a fantastic career that you’ve had for India. And congratulations once again. All the very best. Catch you soon,” Kumble concluded.
Recently he was seen sharing an emotional moment with star batter Virat Kohli in the dressing room hours before the announcement. While it was pictured as rumours of Ashwin’s retirement, the 38 year old’s announcement has confirmed it all.
Ashwin has made 116 ODI appearance with 156 wickets while has 72 wickets in 65 T20Is.
Ashwin’s departure coincides with the peak performance of India’s spin bowling in Test cricket. He has been achieved the distinction of being the first bowler to reach 100 WTC wickets and currently leads the wicket-taking charts with 195 dismissals in 41 matches.
Ashwin has 37 five wicket hauls in test and are only second to former spinner Muttiah Muralidharan who has 67 five wicket hauls.
