Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin's decision to suddenly retire from international cricket has shocked the cricket world. Sunil Gavaskar, former Indian captain and legendary batsman, has criticized the decision. He believes that Ashwin should have waited until the five-match series against Australia was over.
Gavaskar: “Retirement in the middle of the series is a loss to the team”
Gavaskar told the official broadcaster of the series:
“Ashwin could have said that he will not be available for selection after the series. The five-match series is currently tied at 1-1. “With his sudden retirement, the Indian team has lost one player.”
Gavaskar compared Ashwin to Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who retired suddenly after the third Test of the 2014–15 Australia series. He said that such decisions affect the team's plans.
Ashwin was needed in Sydney Test: Gavaskar
Gavaskar said that Ashwin should have played in the fifth Test to be held at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
- Sydney pitch: It is considered favorable for spinners.
- Gavaskar suggested that India could have played with two spinners there, and Ashwin's presence would have been crucial for the team.
- He said:
“It is difficult to say what the Melbourne pitch will be like. But Ashwin's role could have been important in the Sydney Test.
Will Washington Sundar be Ashwin's alternative?
When Gavaskar was asked if Washington Sundar was being considered as Ashwin's successor, he said:
“I think Washington Sundar is ahead of him. Rohit Sharma told that Ashwin is returning home. This is the end of Ashwin's international career. He has been an excellent cricketer.”
Gavaskar expressed confidence in the selection committee
Gavaskar also said that the selection committee had kept additional players ready for the tour.
- If a player is injured, selection can be made from the reserve players.
- However, the sudden departure of an experienced player like Ashwin is a big blow to the team.
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