“He's always been a bit of a thorn in the flesh” - Australian pacer reacts to Ravichandran Ashwin’s sudden retirement after BGT 2024-25 3rd Test
Following Ravichandran Ashwin's retirement, Australia's pace spearhead Mitchell Starc has acknowledged that the Indian has been a thorn in their flesh even in the ongoing series played Down Under. However, the 34-year-old stated that the off-spinner's international numbers speak for the fantastic career he has had.
After the third Test at the Gabba in Brisbane, Ashwin appeared at the press conference alongside Rohit Sharma to announce that he is bidding adieu to international cricket. The 106-Test veteran played his final red-ball game at the highest level in Adelaide.
Speaking to SEN Sports, Starc disclosed that Ashwin's retirement is arguably a massive development and observed how the 38-year-old is a player with plenty of humility. He said (via India Today):
"Obviously, it's big news. His numbers speak for themselves. He's been an incredible bowler for India for a long time. He's got over 500 wickets. He's got a close working relationship with Nathan and mutual respect between teams for someone of his calibre. Congratulations on his career.
"I mean, he's always been a bit of a thorn in the flesh for our side over in India and played a part in series here in Australia. So yeah, it's been a fantastic career and I'm sure it'll be celebrated that way."
The Tamil Nadu-born cricketer was part of India's squad that won back-to-back series in Australia in 2018-19 and 2020-21. In 11 Tests Down Under, he snared 40 scalps at 42.43.
"I do feel there's a bit of punch left in me" - Ravichandran Ashwin
Speaking in his retirement press conference, here's what the champion off-spinner said, as quoted by ESPN Cricinfo:
"This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats at the international level. I do feel there's a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer, but I would like to express that and probably showcase that in club-level cricket, but this will be the last day [for India]."
Meanwhile, the five-Test series between Australia and India is still locked at 1-1 after the third game in Brisbane resulted in a draw.