“Disservice to the game”: Ravichandran Ashwin makes a strong statement on not getting farewell after his retirement
Ravichandran Ashwin is not sulking after not getting a farewell following his retiring from international cricket. The off-spinner announced the decision after the third Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane. He doesn’t believe in grand farewells and recently responded to Kapil Dev’s remark that Ashwin deserved a grand send-off, considering his performances for the country over the years. While he felt happy about what Kapil said about him, he said no to farewell.
His sudden retirement surprised many with some of the former cricketers blaming the team management for mistreating him. Even his spin buddy Ravindra Jadeja was kept in the dark and came to know about Ashwin’s call just five minutes before the decision was made public.
“For me, farewells are wrong and I think you shouldn’t give grand farewells to anyone. I never wanted a grand farewell for myself. It is a part of super celebrity status. I don’t want anyone to cry for me,” Ashwin said to television presenter Gobinath on a YouTube show.
“I don’t like people running behind someone. I know it is for the sake of love, but getting inspired by someone’s journey and legacy is more important. I think farewells are wrong and if a match is organised to celebrate me, it is a disservice to the game,” he added.
“I am not sad and there are no regrets. If I am not happy with 537 wickets, then for what will I be happy? One should accept what he has achieved. We should not regret for something we don’t have.”
Ashwin revealed that retirement was his decision. “This part of my life is over but I will stay connected with cricket. I am not angry and I didn’t cry after retirement. I am the only who decided to take retirement and there is no one else behind my call,” he mentioned.
Ashwin returned to India a day after bidding adieu. He will play for Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League 2025.
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