Ravi Ashwin Retires from International Cricket. Former Indian spinner Ravi Ashwin retired from international cricket in December 2024, putting an end to a remarkable career. Ravi Ashwin clarified that his decision to retire was entirely personal and denied rumours suggesting he was forced out. He also revealed that some teammates had encouraged him to continue playing for a while longer.
The 39-year-old right-arm off-spinner announced his retirement during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 in Australia. Earlier in August, he had already retired from Indian domestic cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Ravi Ashwin concluded his career with 537 wickets in 106 Test matches at an average of 24.0, making him India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Tests after Anil Kumble (619). He also represented India in 116 ODIs and 65 T20Is, though in the later years of his career, he focused solely on Test cricket.
Ravi Ashwin on his international retirement: “No one told me I should go”
Ravi Ashwin has opened up about his decision to retire from international cricket, clarifying that it was entirely his choice. Speaking on his YouTube channel, the 39-year-old spinner revealed that no one pressured him to step away, and in fact, some tried to convince him to continue.
“No one told me that you should go, no one said there’s no place for you in the team. Before I made the decision, 2-3 people actually asked me not to, but I went ahead with it. They wanted me to play more,” Ashwin said.
He added that former Indian captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir also urged him to reconsider. “Rohit Sharma told me to think about it, Gauti bhai also advised me to think again. But I didn’t discuss much with Ajit Agarkar. Retirement is a very personal decision; it’s individual,” he explained.
On Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli: Clear communication is key
Ashwin also spoke about the future of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in Indian cricket, emphasizing that selectors must maintain open communication with both players. He highlighted the value of their experience for the team.
“Virat Kohli is a bonafide ODI legend. The way he and Rohit batted in the 2023 World Cup shows they have nothing to prove. I really hope conversations with them have taken place. Whatever needs to be discussed should have happened. Clear communication is essential,” he said.
“I don’t think any selector or coach can say Virat and Rohit’s services are no longer needed. Experience like theirs cannot be bought. If there’s doubt about their availability until the 2027 World Cup, then the direction they’ve taken seems fair. You can’t head into a World Cup with so many question marks,” Ravi Ashwin added.
Both Rohit and Kohli are preparing for India’s upcoming ODI series against Australia, scheduled from October 19 to 25. Following their retirement from T20Is and Test cricket, they are now focused solely on 50-over cricket.
Meanwhile, Ravi Ashwin went unsold in the International League T20 (ILT20) auction but has signed with Sydney Thunder for the Big Bash League 2025-26 season.
