indian cricket legend Kapil Dev has voiced his strong disapproval of the manner in which Ravichandran Ashwin, a highly celebrated off-spinner, retired from international cricket. Ashwin’s emotional farewell, marked by a hug from Virat Kohli during a post-match press conference alongside captain Rohit Sharma, left many feeling the occasion lacked the grandeur it deserved.
Dev, known for his fiery spirit and leadership, didn’t mince words. “The next generation has to be better than us, if not, the world will not move forward. We never thought anyone would come close to Sachin Tendulkar or Sunil Gavaskar… Ashwin is gone. Had I been there, I would have. I would not have let him go like that. I send him off with great respect and joy,” he stated.
Ashwin’s notable career boasts a remarkable 537 Test wickets from 106 matches, placing him seventh on the all-time list. His exceptional strike rate of 50.73 is the highest among bowlers with over 500 wickets. His achievements include 37 instances of taking five or more wickets in a Test innings—a feat matched only by Shane Warne and surpassed only by Muttiah Muralitharan. He also achieved eight ten-wicket hauls in a single Test match.
Ashwin’s contributions extended beyond individual accolades. His dominance in home Tests substantially bolstered India’s impressive record over the past decade. Since his debut in 2011, he participated in 65 home tests, with India winning 47. Only Sachin Tendulkar boasts more Test wins (52). His consistency is further highlighted by the fact that only Alastair Cook (89) played more home Tests without a single miss.
The Tamil Nadu native holds the distinction of being India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, trailing only the legendary Anil Kumble. His impressive five-wicket hauls are second only to Sri Lanka’s Muttiah Muralitharan.
Kapil Dev, the captain who led India to its first Cricket World Cup victory in 1983, emphasized the continuous evolution of Indian cricket and the enduring legacy of players like Ashwin. He concluded by saying, “The next generation has to be better than us. Or else the world will not move forward. We never thought anyone would come close to Sachin Tendulkar or Sunil Gavaskar.”
Ashwin’s retirement undoubtedly marks the end of an era in Indian cricket, leaving fans and experts alike to reflect on his notable contributions and the debate surrounding his farewell.
Ashwin’s Retirement: A Farewell Fit for a Champion?
World Today News – Senior Editor: Welcome back to World Today News, I’m joined today by Harsha Bhogle, renowned cricket commentator and analyst. Harsha, thank you for joining us today to discuss the retirement of Indian cricketing legend, Ravichandran Ashwin.
Harsha Bhogle: It’s always a pleasure to be here. Ashwin’s retirement certainly leaves a void in Indian cricket, and the manner of his farewell has sparked quite a debate.
World Today News – Senior Editor: Absolutely. Kapil Dev, a true icon of the sport, voiced his disapproval, feeling Ashwin deserved a grander send-off. He believes the next generation needs to surpass their predecessors. What are your thoughts on this?
Harsha Bhogle: kapil Dev’s sentiments are understandable. There’s a certain romantic notion that legends deserve a more ceremonious exit. Though, it’s vital to remember that these are individual decisions, and Ashwin may have simply felt it was the right time to move on.As for surpassing predecessors, that’s the constant challenge in any sport – to push boundaries and set new standards.
World Today News – Senior Editor: Indeed. Ashwin’s career speaks for itself. 537 Test wickets, the seventh highest of all time. he held the best strike rate among bowlers with over 500 wickets. How significant an impact did he have on Indian cricket?
Harsha Bhogle: Ashwin’s impact is immeasurable. He was the architect of many Indian victories, particularly at home. His ability to extract turn on even sluggish pitches and his guile made him a nightmare for batsmen. His partnership with Ravindra Jadeja redefined spin bowling in modern Test cricket.
World Today News - Senior Editor: His form in home Tests, contributing to india’s dominance, is undeniable.
What do you see as his legacy?
Harsha Bhogle: Ashwin’s legacy is multi-faceted. Firstly, he’s redefined off-spin bowling in the modern era. Secondly, he’s shown the world that Indian spinners can be more than just supporting players; they can be match-winners.
World Today News - Senior Editor: Final thoughts, Harsha. What will Ashwin be remembered for?
Harsha Bhogle: Ashwin will be remembered as a craftsman, a master tactician, and a champion who brought joy to millions of fans. while the manner of his farewell might be debated, his contribution to Indian cricket is undeniable and will be celebrated for years to come.
