WATCH: R Ashwin returns to Chennai to a heartwarming reception after announcing retirement | Cricket News
On Wednesday, R Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket after the third India vs Australia Test at the Gabba in Brisbane. The announcement came as a surprise as it was in the middle of a high-profile series. The 38-year-old returned to Chennai on Thursday to a heartwarming welcome.
“I am going to play for CSK and don’t be surprised if I try and aspire to play for as long as I can. I don’t think Ashwin the cricketer is done, I think Ashwin the Indian cricketer has probably called it time. That’s it,” Ashwin said speaking to media. ”
“It’s not. It’s emotional for a lot of people. It will be emotional, maybe it will sink in. But for me, it’s a great sense of relief and satisfaction…It had been running in my head for a while but it was very instinctive. I felt it on day 4 and called it on day 5,” Ashwin said if the decision was emotional.”
#WATCH | Tamil Nadu: People extend a warm welcome to cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin as he arrives at his residence in Chennai, a day after announcing his retirement from International Cricket. pic.twitter.com/rUt5BFX3rA
— ANI (@ANI) December 19, 2024
In a video shared BCCI on social media hours after his retirement on Wednesday, Ashwin said, “Even though I am not exhibiting it, it’s a truly emotional moment,” Ashwin began his speech in the dressing room.”
The 38-year-old then recollected memories of his first tour to Australia which also saw the exits of former India head coach, Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman, followed the big retirement of Sachin Tendulkar in 2013.
“It feels like just now I toured Australia for the first time. I saw everybody transition. Rahul paaji left, Sachin paaji left.”
“Honestly, it is easier to speak in the team huddle. Even though I am not exhibiting it, this is a very emotional moment. Thanks Rohit (Sharma), thanks Virat, thanks Gauti (Gambhir) bhai. I am so happy today,” Ashwin added.
“But, trust me guys, everybody’s time comes and it’s truly my time. I have thoroughly enjoyed it. I have built some great relationships, especially over the last 4-5 years. I am leaving behind some of my teammates who have been playing with dearly.
“Every passing moment in the last four years, I have realised how much I value their relationship and value them as a player. I have had a great time,” he added.
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