“We spent the entire day together, and he didn’t even give me the hint” - Ravindra Jadeja on R Ashwin’s shock retirement after BGT 2024-25 3rd Test
Team India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja opened up about Ravichandran Ashwin's retirement from international cricket after the third Border-Gavaskar series Test at The Gaba in Brisbane. The veteran off-spinner chose to call it a day midway through the series after having made one appearance during the pink ball Test at the Adelaide Oval.
Jadeja, who replaced Ashwin in the playing XI for the third Test, admitted that he was unaware of his bowling partner's intentions despite being together on the rain-marred final day which led to a draw. The pair have bowled in tandem for over a decade and played a huge part in Team India's illustrious home streak that only came to an end, a few months back.
While reports hinted at a retirement in the Indian camp, the news broke like wildfire when an emotional Ashwin was spotted in the dressing room towards the end of play. The off-spinner then confirmed his decision during the post-match press conference and left for India soon after.
"I got to know about the retirement at the last moment. Five minutes before the press conference. It was shocking. We spent the entire day together, and he didn’t even gave me the hint. We all know how Ashwin’s mind works. We have been bowling partners for so many years. We kept complementing each other. We used to plan against the batters. I will miss so many things," Jadeja told reporters at the MCG ahead of the fourth Test (via Indian Express)
Ashwin has asserted that he aims to continue as a cricketer playing at the domestic level, and in the Indian Premier League (IPL) in the twilight years of his career.
"It is a golden opportunity for any youngster to grab this opportunity" -Ravindra Jadeja on the void left by Ashwin
With Ashwin not in the scheme of things anymore, Team India will have to decide on his replacement in the playing XI, particularly in home conditions. Spinners like Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar are waiting on the sidelines to become full-time members of the playing XI.
"In India we always have good talents and it is not like anyone is irreplaceable. We will have to move on. It is a golden opportunity for any youngster to grab this opportunity," Jadeja said
Jadeja's performance at The Gabba, where he scored a crucial 77 in India's follow-on escape, possibly locks his place for the remainder of the Border-Gavaskar series. He came to the team's rescue after reeling at 74-5 in the first innings.
“Scoring outside when the team is in tough position, it gives you confidence. Mindset will be the same. You will have to play according to the match situation and I will play according to the team’s role,” he concluded
The fourth Test between India and Australia is scheduled to begin on Thursday, December 26 onwards at the MCG.