retirement announcement might have sent shockwaves across the cricketing fraternity but it isn’t a decision that Ashwin made in an instant. His recent performances, status in the team, age, fitness, and emerging players, are some of the factors that would’ve likely impacted Ashwin’s decision. When former India spinner Harbhajan Singh was asked about Ashwin’s decision, he did admit that it was a big shock. The ‘Turbanator’ thinks that a doubt in Ashwin’s mind over his selection for India’s Tour of England next year may have played a part.
For the first time in his career, Ashwin saw another off-spinner preferred ahead of him for a Test (in Perth). Though Ashwin made a return to the playing XI for the pink-ball Test against Australia in Adelaide, he was benched again at The Gabba. The clear hint from the team management was there for Ashwin to read.
In a chat with Dainik Jagran, Harbhajan revealed that Ashwin wasn’t going to be among the two spinners who would’ve been picked for India’s tour of England. Hence, the veteran spinner decided that it was time for him to say goodbye to the game.
“I am shocked by their decision. It is certainly surprising for such a big decision to come in the middle of an ongoing series. Perhaps we were expecting to see him in Sydney and Melbourne because the role of spinners is very important there, but we should respect his decision. He must have taken this decision after thinking very carefully. He is a very big bowler. I salute his achievements. He has been a match-winning bowler and has won many matches for India. I wish him all the best