Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has clarified that his decision to retire from international cricket was entirely personal and that no one in the team or management forced him to step away.
The 39-year-old surprised fans by announcing his retirement after the third Test of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Brisbane. He later ended his IPL career in August this year.
‘No one told me to go’
Addressing the ongoing speculation around his decision, Ashwin said on his YouTube channel that it was made after careful thought.
“No one told me that I should go or that there was no place for me in the team. In fact, 2-3 people told me not to take that decision,” Ashwin revealed.
He added that both then-captain Rohit Sharma and mentor Gautam Gambhir advised him to reconsider. “Rohit Sharma told me to think about it, Gauti bhai also said the same. I didn’t discuss much about it with Ajit Agarkar,” he said.
Ashwin reiterated that retirement is a deeply individual choice. “These are very personal decisions. Everyone has their own reasons,” he added.
Clear communication key for seniors
Ashwin also spoke about the importance of transparent communication between the team management and senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
Both stalwarts, who have retired from Tests and T20Is, are part of India’s ODI squad for the upcoming series against Australia. Rohit, however, has been replaced by Shubman Gill as captain.
“Virat Kohli is a bonafide ODI legend. The way he and Rohit batted in the 2023 World Cup, they have nothing left to prove,” Ashwin said.
He expressed hope that the selectors have communicated clearly with both senior players. “Whatever needs to be discussed with them must have happened. There should always be clear communication,” he noted.
Backing Rohit and Kohli
Ashwin said that both Rohit and Kohli still have plenty to offer.
“No selector or coach would dare say their services are no longer needed. Their experience is invaluable,” he said.
Ashwin added that their preparation and fitness show their intent to continue till the 2027 World Cup. “They are investing in their bodies and preparing for that goal,” he concluded.
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