Ravichandran Ashwin's retirement could mark the beginning of a significant transition for the Indian cricket team. As per a report by Cricbuzz, this shift might begin during the England tour scheduled for June-July next year. The ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, India's last red-ball series of the year, might also signal the end of an era for India's "OG generation," a term used by Ashwin during his retirement announcement at the Gabba in Brisbane on December 18.
Ashwin was a key member of a group that included Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara, and Ravindra Jadeja—players who became the backbone of the team following the retirement of legends like Rahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar, and VVS Laxman between 2012 and 2013. The fact that Ashwin is the first among this core to step down has taken many by surprise.
Indirect signals of a new phase for Team India
While Ashwin's decision appears voluntary, there is speculation that subtle indications may have influenced it. According to Cricbuzz, the upcoming transition could gain momentum during India's next Test series in England, beginning in the summer of 2025. Though no official directive seemed to prompt Ashwin's retirement, the team’s choices in recent matches might have sent an indirect message. This situation draws parallels with the 2008 transition when multiple senior players retired in quick succession.
Ashwin’s omission from the playing XI in the Perth Test, where Washington Sundar was chosen over him and Ravindra Jadeja, raised eyebrows. This marked a significant shift, as Ashwin, India’s second-highest wicket-taker with 675 scalps, has seldom been overshadowed by another off-spinner. While Ashwin has often been benched in overseas Tests in favor of Jadeja, being overlooked for Sundar was seen as a more pointed message.
A similar path for other senior players?
The murmurs around Ashwin’s performance, particularly after a lackluster series against New Zealand, were likely noticed by the spinner himself. While there’s no confirmation that selectors directly pushed him toward retirement, such developments would not have gone unnoticed by a seasoned professional. With India’s chances of making the WTC final now slim, other senior players might also face similar circumstances.
The next Test cycle, beginning with a five-match series in England, could see the baton being passed to a younger generation. Leadership changes may also be on the horizon, potentially marking a new chapter for Indian cricket.
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