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R Ashwin after announcing his decision to retire opened up about his decision and how the last two years of his career have not be easy for him.
R Ashwin ended his international career after the third Test against Australia at the Gabba. (Image: AFP)
Ravichandran Ashwin, who announced his retirement from international cricket revealed that the last two years of his playing career for the country were not as memorable as many might have seen.
The 38-year-old veteran had announced his decision to retire from international cricket following the end of the fifth day’s play of the third Test at the Gabba, which ended in a draw.
After receiving a hero’s welcome at the Chennai Airport, Ashwin talked to some of the mediapersons who were at home where he talked more about his retirement decision.
“It’s emotional for a lot of people, and maybe it will sink in (in some time) but for me, it is a great sense of relief and satisfaction. It was very instinctive and it has been running in my head for a while. I just felt (it) on Day 4 and I just called it a day,” Ashwin said, referring to the drawn third Test in Brisbane, as quoted by PTI.
After getting back home, Ashwin was taken aback by the kind of reception he received at his home where he expected just a quiet and relaxed entry, comparing it to the time when India won the 2011 ODI World Cup.
“I never thought so many people would come here. I just wanted a quiet entry and was looking forward to relaxing at home. But you have made my day. I have played Test cricket for so many years, but the last time (I saw something) like this was after the 2011 World Cup,” he said.
The veteran explained that the last two years were not as easy as many thought it would be, which prompted him to make this decision.
“To be honest, we all go through a lot in our career, not only for cricketers but in general. Generally, when I go to sleep I remember a lot of things like taking wickets, making runs, but those memories are not there in the last two years,” he revealed.
“So, that was a clear indication that we need to take a different route now,” Ashwin added.
Now the experienced campaigner will look to bring forth his best with the Chennai Super Kings who paid a whopping Rs 9.75 Crore after a fierce bidding war against the Rajasthan Royals at the Indian Premier League 2025 Mega Auction.