Ravichandran Ashwin Reflects on Retirement Plans and Cricket Legacy

Veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin opens up about his retirement plans, expressing a desire to leave international cricket around age 34-35. He reflects on the challenges of touring and the importance of family time. With impressive statistics, including 537 Test wickets, Ashwin's legacy in cricket is significant. Discover more about his journey and thoughts on stepping back from the game.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 22, 2025, 02:21 IST

Ashwin's Retirement Insights

In a recent discussion, veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin shared his thoughts on retiring from international cricket, expressing a desire to step away from the game around the age of 34 or 35, rather than extending his career until 38.

Ashwin's retirement announcement during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy last year surprised many in the cricket community, particularly following the draw in the third Test held in Brisbane.

On his YouTube show 'Kutti Stories with Ash', Ashwin stated, “I had made up my mind to retire at 34-35. It felt like the right time for me, considering my life circumstances. I realized I was getting older, and the frequent tours, along with sitting out more often, began to take a toll on me.”

He emphasized the importance of taking breaks, suggesting that stepping back from a situation can help rekindle one's passion for the game. “Sometimes, distancing yourself from the environment can reignite your enthusiasm to return,” he noted.

Ashwin also reflected on the balance between cricket and family, pondering whether he would prefer to spend time with his children as they grow up rather than being away on tours.

Throughout his illustrious career, Ashwin has played 106 Tests for India, claiming 537 wickets at an impressive average of 24.00, with his best bowling figures being 7/59. He has achieved 37 five-wicket hauls and eight ten-wicket match hauls, ranking as the eighth-highest wicket-taker in Test history and second for India, following Anil Kumble's 619 wickets.

With the bat, he has amassed 3,503 runs at an average of 25.75, including six centuries and 14 fifties, with a top score of 124. In One Day Internationals (ODIs), Ashwin has taken 156 wickets at an average of 33.20 and scored 707 runs.

Overall, Ashwin has taken 765 wickets across all formats, making him India's second-highest wicket-taker, just behind Anil Kumble's record of 953 wickets. He was also instrumental in India's victories in the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup and the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy.