“Ashwin Was Hurt, Unhappy, Deserved a Better Farewell”: Kapil Dev

The legendary all-rounder calls for a grand farewell for Ashwin, praising his unparalleled contributions to Indian cricket.

December 20, 2024: Ravichandran Ashwin’s sudden decision to retire from international cricket mid-series has left fans and cricketing legends alike stunned. Among them is India’s 1983 World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev, who expressed his shock and disappointment at the timing of Ashwin’s announcement. Speaking to PTI, Kapil said Ashwin deserved a more fitting farewell, ideally on Indian soil.’

Also Read: Ravichandran Ashwin Returns Home After Surprise Test Retirement, Reflects on Career

“I was shocked by how one of India’s greatest cricketers chose to leave the game. The disappointment among the fans was widespread, but I also saw a tinge of hurt on his face. He looked unhappy, and that was sad. He deserved much better, a fitting farewell,” Kapil said.

Ashwin, known for charting his own course, announced his retirement immediately after the drawn Brisbane Test against Australia. Kapil speculated that something may have been troubling the star off-spinner.

Also Read: Ashwin: A Master Who Never Stopped Evolving, Says Ravi Shastri

“He could have waited and announced his retirement on Indian soil, but I don’t know why Ashwin called it a day. I would want to hear his side of the story. Give him that respect. He has played 106 Tests for the country. I don’t think anyone can match his humongous contribution to Indian cricket,” Kapil added.

Also Read: Pat Cummins ‘Surprised’ By Ashwin’s Decision To Retire From International Cricket

A Grand Farewell for a Champion

Kapil expressed hope that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) would honor Ashwin with a grand farewell.

“I’m sure the BCCI will plan a grand farewell for this giant match-winner of Team India,” he said.

Reflecting on Ashwin’s illustrious career, Kapil lauded the 38-year-old for his versatility and innovative bowling.

“He was ready to experiment, and that is what set him apart. In a game where batters often take the spotlight, Ashwin stood out with his craft and tactical brilliance. He was brave, adaptable, and his captain’s go-to man in challenging situations,” Kapil noted.

A Legacy Like No Other

Kapil praised Ashwin’s cricketing brain and unmatched ability on the field, calling him a true champion.

“He has won India’s highest number of Man of the Series awards. That speaks volumes about his game and consistency. He was not a ‘yes’ man; he was a gritty fighter who always stood his ground. He was a rare spinner who could bowl with the new ball, just like Anil Kumble,” Kapil said.

The legendary all-rounder joked about how Ashwin’s prowess would have made him insecure as a player. “Thank God I didn’t have to play alongside him. I would have lost my place to Ashwin,” he quipped.

Ashwin’s ability to contribute with both ball and bat was unmatched. “He could bat, bowl, field. He had the carrom ball, a superb slower one, and even a leg-spinner if needed. He was a complete package and could do everything possible on the cricket field,” Kapil added.

With 537 Test wickets, Ashwin ranks as India’s second-highest wicket-taker, behind Anil Kumble. Kapil hailed him as a champion with immense self-belief and adaptability.

“Only a champion is not insecure, and Ashwin was a champion. He has given us great joy. I wish him all the happiness in the world,” Kapil concluded.

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Ravichandran Ashwin, R Ashwin retirement, Kapil Dev, Indian cricket legends, Test cricket, BCCI farewell, Ashwin career, cricket news, Indian cricket achievements, Ashwin legacy,