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'Leaves You One Short'- Gavaskar Slams Ashwin's Sudden Retirement Announcement 

Sakshi Sharma

Sunil Gavaskar opines on R Ashwin's retirement (Source:@whos_snext,x.com)Sunil Gavaskar opines on R Ashwin's retirement (Source:@whos_snext,x.com)

In a significant development, R Ashwin announced his retirement from international Cricket on December 18, 2024, after the conclusion of India and Australia's third Test at Brisbane. Related to his sudden retirement mid-series, legend Sunil Gavaskar has expressed his dissatisfaction and suggested that the premier off-spinner could have waited until the end of BGT to make such announcement. 

His abrupt retirement has raised questions about the timing and its impact on the Indian team, especially with the series is levelled at 1-1.

Gavaskar Criticise R Ashwin's Mid-Series Retirement 

After the match, speaking to Star Sports, Sunil Gavaskar stated that Ashwin’s decision leaves India one player short for the remaining two Tests, might slightly unsettle the team ahead of the fourth Test. The former India captain also compared Ashwin’s decision to that of MS Dhoni’s mid-series retirement in 2014-15. 

"He could have said, listen after the end of the series, I won't be available for selection. What it does is it leaves you one short, just like when Dhoni retired after the third Test in 2014-15."

Gavaskar further pointed out that Ashwin could have played a significant role in the final Test in Sydney. It is important to note that Sydney Cricket Ground is the venue in Australia, and it has historically proven to provide some help and assistance to spin bowlers. 

"Sydney offers a lot of support for spinners. India could have played with two spinners there, and Ashwin might have made a difference," Gavaskar remarked.

He also hinted that Washington Sundar could already be ahead of Ashwin in the order for India’s spin department for the rest of the series. "Maybe Washington Sundar is ahead of him'. 

However, it is important to note that, Ashwin will play in domestic tournaments and will also be seen in the IPL 2025 playing for Chennai Super Kings (CSK).