‘Among the All-Time Greats’: Indian Team Selector MSK Prasad Praises Ravichandran Ashwin on Retirement Announcement

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India's former chief selector MSK Prasad paid glowing tributes to Ravichandran Ashwin, the legendary off-spinner, following his retirement announcement after the third Test in Brisbane during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

In his statement, ex-cricketer Prasad lauded Ashwin’s versatility and unparalleled contributions to Indian cricket, while also remarking on the spinner's ability to excel across all formats of the game.

What MSK Prasad Said About Ravichandran Ashwin

“While retirement decisions are personal, a legendary farewell would certainly have been a fitting tribute to his (Ashwin’s) illustrious career,” MSK Prasad told media. “It would not only celebrate his achievements but also allow fans, teammates, and the cricketing fraternity to express their gratitude for his immense contribution. Regardless of when or how he chooses to step away, his legacy as one of India’s greatest cricketers is forever etched in history.”

The Indian team selector also spoke about Ravichandran Ashwin's immense contributions to Indian cricket, describing them as “monumental”. He highlighted Ashwin’s ability to adapt across all formats, commending his unmatched skill, intelligence, and resilience.

According to him, Ashwin’s consistency and knack for delivering in crucial moments played a pivotal role in India's success over the last decade, particularly in Test cricket, where his statistics place him “among the all-time greats”.

Ravichandran Ashwin’s Retirement

Ashwin’s decision to retire from international cricket came immediately after the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Brisbane. “This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats at the international level,” Ashwin said during the post-match press conference. “I do feel there's a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer, but I would like to express that and probably showcase that in club-level cricket.”

Ashwin's international career spanned 14 years, beginning in 2010, during which he established himself as one of India's finest spinners. He retires as India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Tests, with 537 dismissals in 106 matches, second only to Anil Kumble's 619. His Test career also included 37 five-wicket hauls and eight ten-wicket match hauls, underscoring his dominance in the format.

In addition to his Test exploits, Ashwin played 116 ODIs, claiming 156 wickets at an average of 33.20. He also represented India in 65 T20Is, taking 72 wickets with an economy rate of 6.90. While his white-ball appearances dwindled after 2023, Ashwin remained a vital cog in India’s Test setup, particularly in home conditions.

Apart from his bowling, Ashwin’s batting achievements were equally impressive. He amassed 3503 Test runs, including six centuries and 14 half-centuries, placing him among an elite group of all-rounders with over 3000 runs and 300 wickets.

Ashwin’s retirement comes at a time when he was no longer a regular in India’s overseas Test XI. With his next opportunity to play at home coming only in late 2025, Ashwin, now 38, decided to bid farewell to international cricket.