December 21, 2024: Ravindra Jadeja has opened up about the deep bond he shared with Ravichandran Ashwin on and off the field, admitting that he will “miss” the time spent together as bowling partners. The duo, who were a formidable force in Test cricket, particularly on home soil, have been integral to India’s success over the years. However, with Ashwin’s unexpected retirement announcement, their legendary partnership has come to an end.
Jadeja revealed that he found out about Ashwin’s decision just moments before the official announcement. “I got to know about it at the last moment, almost five minutes before the press conference. Someone told me it was about to happen. We spent the whole day together, and he didn’t even give me a hint,” Jadeja chuckled. His surprise was evident, as the two had shared so many memories on the field and built a partnership that was pivotal to India’s dominance in Test cricket.
Reflecting on their long association, Jadeja said Ashwin was not just a teammate but an on-field mentor. “He played like my on-field mentor. We have been playing together for so many years as bowling partners. We kept passing messages to each other on the field regarding the match situation. I will miss all these things,” said Jadeja, who also shared the IPL dressing room with Ashwin, further strengthening their camaraderie.
Ashwin’s retirement leaves a significant gap in India’s bowling attack, particularly in red-ball cricket. Jadeja acknowledged the challenge ahead, but he remains hopeful about the future. “Hopefully, the Indian team gets a better all-rounder and bowler. It’s not like nobody can replace a player. Everyone goes, but you get the replacement. We have to move on. It is a good opportunity for youngsters to grab the opportunity,” he stated.
Jadeja’s words reflect the inevitable evolution of cricket, where one era gives way to the next. In the case of Ashwin’s retirement, the search for a worthy replacement is already underway. The rise of Washington Sundar, in particular, has generated speculation that he could be the next all-rounder to step into Ashwin’s shoes, especially in Test cricket.
Ashwin’s contributions to Indian cricket are nothing short of extraordinary. In his 106-Test career, Ashwin took 537 wickets, including 37 five-wicket hauls, and scored 3,503 runs. His impact, however, goes beyond the numbers, as he was a key figure in shaping India’s success across formats. The Indian team will undoubtedly face the challenge of filling his void, but with Jadeja’s optimism and belief in the team’s young talent, there’s hope that the future holds a worthy successor.
