R Ashwin breaks silence on Farewell Test rumours, gives brutal reason behind his choice

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Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India's most accomplished off-spinners, announced his retirement from international cricket in 2024 following the third Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane.

Ashwin's decision to retire mid-series was unexpected and has been attributed to feelings of "humiliation" due to team selection uncertainties. His father hinted that Ashwin had expressed a desire to play only if assured of a regular spot in the playing XI.

However, he was replaced by other spinners in crucial matches, leading to his decision to retire on his own terms rather than face the possibility of being dropped.

Throughout his 14-year international career, Ashwin played 106 Tests, taking 537 wickets at an average of 24, making him India's second-highest wicket-taker in the format, only behind Anil Kumble. He also scored 3503 Test runs, including six centuries, establishing himself as a formidable all-rounder. In limited-overs cricket, he appeared in 116 ODIs and 65 T20Is, claiming 156 and 72 wickets respectively.

India lost the BGT series in Australia, and Ashwin's abrupt retirement became a huge talking point as the stalwart bid adieu to international cricket without a proper sending-off. Although this has been a general lack in Indian cricket, Ashwin's departure without a farewell match garnered a lot of anger among fans.

R Ashwin on Farewell Test

Amid this, the veteran player has broken his silence on the issue. On his YouTube channel, Ashwin elaborated on the reason why he doesn't want a Farewell Test.

"Farewell Test is not required. What difference will this make if I came out with the ball and people are clapping? How long will people talk about it? What if I am just playing the Farewell Test for the sake of it and I don't deserve it? When social media was not there, people talked about it and forgot after one week. There is no need for a farewell. The game has given us a lot, and we have played with a lot of happiness," Ashwin said on his channel.

"I believe that I still had fuel to represent India but it is always better to finish when people ask 'why not' than 'why'. I have been playing the game for long and in cricket, everything won't happen according to you, it is a learning, " he added.

Ashwin will be featuring next in the 22 yards wearing the Chennai Super Kings jersey in IPL 2025. The Indian stalwart made a return to CSK in the mega auction and will be aiming to showcase his might for the five-time IPL champions.