The sudden announcement of retirement by Ravichandran Ashwin has left many upset as they felt that the legendary spinner was not getting the respect which he actually deserved.
The former Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has openly criticised the Indian team management for failing to recognise Ravichandran Ashwin’s leadership qualities, even by not granting him the honor of vice-captaincy. Sunil Gavaskar argued that Ashwin, known for his sharp cricketing mind, deserved at least a token opportunity to hold a leadership position, such as being named vice-captain for a single Test or a bilateral series. Despite leading the team onto the field during his 100th Test as a symbolic gesture, Ashwin was never given the chance to formally captain the Indian side.
Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement after the third test match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 at the Gabba and in his illustrious career, he played 106 Tests, 116 ODIs and 65 T20Is. With 537 Test wickets, he stands as India’s second highest wicket-taker, only behind Anil Kumble. Despite these accomplishments and his reputation as one of the most astute tacticians of cricket, Ashwin’s leadership experience remained confined to domestic cricket and the IPL.
In his column, Sunil Gavaskar expressed disappointment, stating that Ashwin could have been honored with vice-captaincy at least once. He emphasised how Ashwin’s exclusion from leadership roles reflected a lack of appreciation for his contributions.
Sunil Gavaskar also criticised the management’s handling of Ashwin in overseas Tests. He highlighted how Ashwin was often sidelined under the pretext of “team balance”, even though his performances frequently earned him the Player of the Series awards. Sunil Gavaskar pointed out the double standards, stating that Ashwin’s exclusion was rationalised with conditions-related excuses, which were rarely applied to underperforming batters in similar scenarios.
At home, Sunil Gavaskar noted, Ashwin’s importance was undeniable, as his presence was often critical to India’s victories. However, his exclusion in overseas matches, particularly under questionable justifications, raised concerns about how his value was perceived by the team management.
The selection of Washington Sundar over Ashwin for the first Test of the series in Perth is believed by many to have influenced Ashwin’s decision to retire. This final snub appeared to solidify the feeling that his contributions were not fully acknowledged, leading to his decision to step away from the game.
