Ravichandran Ashwin has revealed that the frustration of being sidelined during overseas tours played a major role in his sudden decision to retire midway through last year’s Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The legendary off-spinner made the admission in a candid chat with Rahul Dravid on his YouTube series Kutti Stories.
‘It eventually got to me’
Ashwin, India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Tests with over 500 scalps, shocked fans by walking away from international cricket after the third Test in Brisbane in December 2024. Speaking to Dravid, he admitted that the repeated experience of travelling but not making the playing XI had become mentally draining.
“I was pretty old, I must admit. But going on tours and having to just sit out a lot more eventually got to me,” Ashwin said. He added that the situation often made him question his role: “You start wondering, what am I really doing here?”
Retirement was a planned decision
Ashwin clarified that the decision was not sudden but part of a long-standing plan. “In my head, I had always decided I would retire at 34–35,” he revealed. While stepping away from India duty, Ashwin emphasised that he wanted to spend more time with his family and children rather than live on the road without playing regularly.
No farewell fuss, more domestic cricket
The 38-year-old also explained why his retirement lacked fanfare. “I didn’t want to make it about me. It was just the right time.” He hinted that he would continue in domestic cricket, which offers more flexibility and allows him to stay connected with the game without constant travel.
Ashwin’s reflections underline the challenges of squad selection in modern Test cricket and the emotional toll it can take on even the most accomplished players.
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