Ravichandran Ashwin's sudden decision to retire midway through the Border-Gavaskar Trophy left both fans and his family in shock.
The veteran off-spinner’s father, Ravichandran, recently revealed that the move surprised everyone at home and hinted at persistent humiliation as a possible reason behind the abrupt retirement.
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While he refrained from divulging specific details, his comments have sparked widespread speculation about the challenges Ashwin faced that may have led to his unexpected retirement.
What led to Ashwin’s sudden retirement?
Ashwin announced his retirement shortly after the third Test against Australia ended in Brisbane. The decision came unexpectedly, and he returned home to Chennai just hours after making the announcement.
Speculations suggest Ashwin’s exclusion from playing XI in overseas Tests, including the Brisbane match, might have played a role.
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Consistent omissions despite being one of India’s top spinners may have fueled his feelings of dissatisfaction.
What did Ashwin’s father reveal about the decision?
Speaking to the media, Ravichandran expressed his shock at the timing of the retirement announcement. He hinted that ongoing humiliation might have pushed Ashwin to step away from international cricket.
"I too came to know (about his retirement) in the last minute, actually," Ravichandran told News18.
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"Retiring is his wish and desire, I cannot interfere in that, but the way in which he gave that, there could be many reasons. Only Ashwin knows, maybe humiliation," he added.
He further elaborated on the emotional toll, saying, "No doubt about it (emotional moment for the family) because he was on the field for 14-15 years. The sudden change, retirement, gave us really kind of a shock,"
While refraining from specifying instances, Ravichandran hinted that humiliation could have played a significant role in Ashwin's decision.
"At the same time, we were expecting that also because humiliation was going on. How long he can just tolerate all those things? Probably, he would have decided on his own," Ravichandran said further.
He further acknowledged the mixed emotions within the family regarding Ashwin’s decision.
"What was going on in his mind I don’t know. He just announced. I too accepted it with full pleasure. I did not have any feeling at all for that. But the way he gave his retirement, one part I was very happy, another part not happy because he should have continued," he explained.
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How did Ashwin’s absence impact the series?
Ashwin’s decision not to participate in the last two matches of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy left a void in India’s bowling attack.
Iconic venues like Melbourne and Sydney, known to favor spin, could have provided Ashwin with opportunities to shine.
However, his spot was handed to all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, whose batting contributions have often been favored by team management in overseas conditions.
