Former India great raps Ravichandran Ashwin for his retirement amid Test series

Legendary Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin made the announcement about his retirement after the end of the Brisbane Test with Australia on Wednesday.

However, Ashwin’s decision amid the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Test series against hosts Australia baffled many fans and experts. It has not gone down well with former India captain and legendary batsman Sunil Gavaskar.

“The development leaves India one player short. The reason for selecting a big squad is to make sure that if a player is injured or misses a game due to some other reason, the replacement is there,” said Gavaskar.

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“I don’t know about the wicket in Melbourne but the track in Sydney is helpful for spinners and who knows India might have played two spinners, including Ashwin in the playing XI. Such decisions are announced after the series and not midway. It is a bit unusual,” the Little Master added.

However, the former India captain praised Ashwin for his brilliant performances over the years.

“Ashwin has been a match winner for India and his variations made life really difficult for the batters,” said Gavaskar.

Notably, Ashwin captured 537 wickets in 106 Tests at an average of 24.00. He also took 156 wickets in 116 ODIs. The veteran off-spinner represented India in 65 T20Is and took 72 wickets.

Though Ashwin got limited chances in the current Australia tour, his performance was ordinary.