NEW DELHI: As Ravichandran Ashwin brought down curtains on his international career on Wednesday, the premier spinner left the cricketing world, including his teammates stunned with the surprise announcement.
Wishes poured in from all quarters as the cricketing fraternity hailed a stellar Ashwin career that saw him becoming the second best Indian spinner behind legendary Anil Kumble.
And soon after the proceedings of the third Test concluded, Ashwin was seen making an emotional farewell speech in the dressing room that left every one teary-eyed.
Ashwin also had a special gesture from the Australian team as his contemporary Nathan Lyon and skipper Pat Cummins gifted him a signed jersey.
"I don't know how to go about this honestly. It is a very emotional moment for me. It feels just like 2011-12 when I toured here, my first Australian tour and I saw a transition. Rahul bhai left, Sachin paaji left. Trust me guys, everybody's time comes and today was truly my time. I have thoroughly enjoyed it. Built some great relationships and friendships over the last 4-5 years, notably. I will be taking a flight back home but will tune in to see how well you guys do in Melbourne," Ashwin said in a dressing room speech.
"The international cricketer in me might have come to an end but the cricket nut in me will never come to an end. I will be looking forward to each one of your performances and all the very best," he added.
Ashwin retired from the game as the second highest wicket-taker for India in Tests with 537 scalps in 106 games, leaving him only behind Kumble (619 wickets).
Ashwin however will continue to play club cricket.
The 38-year-old played the day-night Test in Adelaide and picked up one wicket.
Ashwin was also seen sharing an emotional moment with star batter Virat Kohli in the dressing room hours before the announcement.
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