Ravichandran Ashwinone of India's all-rounders, recently opened up about his decision not to play the farewell Test. The 37-year-old announced his retirement from Test cricket Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25ending a glorious career that saw him rewrite the record books and become one of the greatest bowlers in the history of the game. Speaking on his show, Ash Ki BaatAshwin explained why he chose not to participate in the farewell ceremony, a ceremony that many cricketers love.
Ravichandran Ashwin explains why he didn't choose the farewell Test
Ashwin expressed that he appreciates the honesty and integrity of the ritual, saying that the farewell game has no meaning for him if he doesn't really deserve to be in the team. He has insisted that playing just for the sake of farewell would make him dissatisfied as it would affect his quality of cricket. Ashwin believes that he retires at a time when people are asking “why” he is leaving, not “how,” to show his desire to leave the game on a high note and with dignity.
“I personally believe that there is no need to have a farewell game. I just want to be honest. Just imagine, if I get a bye Test but I don't have to have a place on the side, I won't be happy. Cricket mein dum tha, but I think it's better to stop when people ask why and not why,” Ashwin said.
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A glorious performance to remember
Ashwin's retirement brings the door to a successful Test career that has spanned a decade. The all-rounder finished with 537 wickets in 106 Tests, making him India's second-highest wicket-taker in all formats, behind the all-time leading scorer. Anil Kumbe.
Known for his sharp intellect and uncanny ability to adapt to situations, Ashwin played a key role in India's dominance in domestic conditions as well as a number of overseas victories. His contributions with the bat, including five centuries, added value to the team.