December 18, 2024, marked the conclusion of one of the most iconic careers in international cricket as Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement after 14 remarkable years in the game.
The Tamil Nadu-born off-spinner made his debut in ODIs and T20Is in 2010 and his Test debut in 2011. He quickly became a key figure in the Indian team across all formats, emerging as one of the game’s greats and one of India’s most prolific match-winners in Test cricket. Under Ashwin’s leadership, India forged a historic legacy in home Test cricket, remaining unbeaten in all home series from 2012 to October 2024.
1. Ranked Test Bowler and All-Rounder
Ravichandran Ashwin reached the pinnacle of ICC Test rankings, claiming the No. 1 spot for bowlers six times throughout his career, with his most recent achievement in March earlier this year. He also held the No. 1 ranking as a Test all-rounder multiple times during his career.
2. Second Most Wickets for India in International and Test Cricket
Ashwin retired with 765 international wickets and 537 wickets in Test cricket, ranking second among Indian bowlers in both formats. He trails Anil Kumble, who holds the record with 953 international wickets and 619 Test wickets.
3. ICC ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy Wins
Two of Ashwin’s most cherished moments in limited-overs cricket came with his victories in the ICC ODI World Cup 2011 and ICC Champions Trophy 2013. Although he played only a couple of games in the 2011 World Cup, claiming two wickets in the quarter-final against Australia, he was a key player in India’s 2013 Champions Trophy win, taking eight wickets, including 2/15 in the final against England.
4. Joint Most Man of the Series Awards in Test Cricket
5. ICC Accolades
In 2016, Ashwin was honored with the prestigious ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year and Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year awards for the period from September 14, 2015, to September 20, 2016. Additionally, he was named to the ICC Men’s Test Team of the Year in 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2023, further showcasing his exceptional contributions to the game.