Ravichandran Ashwin, a name that resonates with cricketing excellence, officially announced his retirement from international cricket after the conclusion of the third Test in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.
His illustrious career, spanning various formats, has been marked by remarkable achievements, making him one of India’s finest bowlers. As the off-spinner bids farewell, it’s time to reflect on his five most impactful performances that have left an indelible mark on the game.
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5. 3/24 vs New Zealand, Chennai 2010
Ravi’s journey in international cricket began with significant promise, showcased in a fifth ODI against New Zealand in Chennai in 2010. Bowling first, Ashwin dismantled the Kiwi lineup, ending with figures of 3/24 in just eight overs, maintaining an impressive economy rate of 3.00.
His wickets of Scott Styris, Kyle Mills, and Tim Southee were pivotal in skittling the visitors out for a mere 103 runs. India chased down the total with ease, winning by eight wickets, establishing Ashwin as a formidable force early in his career.
4: 4/8 vs Sri Lanka, Visakhapatnam 2016
In the third T20I against Sri Lanka in 2016, Ashwin solidified his reputation as a match-winner. He claimed 4/8 in his four overs, helping India restrict Sri Lanka to a meager total of just 82 runs. His economical bowling included a maiden over and the dismissal of key players like Niroshan Dickwella and Dinesh Chandimal, ensuring he was the standout performer of the match.
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For his brilliant bowling display, Ravichandran was awarded the ‘Player of the Match’, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure.
3: 6/41 vs Australia, Bengaluru 2017
One of Ashwin’s crowning moments came during the second Test against Australia in Bengaluru in 2017. Chasing a target of 188 runs, the Australian side faced a formidable challenge from Ashwin, who picked up 6/41 in the second innings, playing a match-defining role in India’s victory by 75 runs.
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He was instrumental in dismantling the Australian batting order, claiming the vital wickets of David Warner, Peter Handscomb, and Matthew Wade. Having already contributed with a couple of wickets in the first innings, Ashwin’s stellar performance was crucial for India’s success in this hard-fought Test match.
2: 7/66 vs South Africa, Nagpur 2015
The third Test against South Africa in Nagpur in 2015 was another showcase of Ashwin’s unmatched talent. Leading India to a comprehensive 124-run victory, Ashwin’s figures of 7/66 were pivotal in bowling South Africa out for 185 while chasing a challenging target of 310 runs.
His ability to dismiss both openers early on set the tone for the innings, and he later accounted for big names like AB de Villiers and JP Duminy. Ravi’s outstanding contributions in both innings earned him the ‘Player of the Match’ award, underlining his dominance in the series.
1: 113 runs in 133 balls, and a 6 wickets haul against Bangladesh 2024
R Ashwin achieved a remarkable feat in the 2024 Test match against Bangladesh, scoring his fourth double of a hundred and taking 7 wickets, marking one of the standout moments of his career. Ashwin got to his hundred in 108 balls as his innings consisted of 10 boundaries and 2 sixes. This performance at Chepauk further solidified his legacy in the game, as he led India to a 1-0 series advantage.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s career is filled with remarkable feats, defining moments, and unforgettable performances. As he closes this chapter, these five spells reflect the brilliance and skill that have made Ashwin a revered figure in the annals of international cricket. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations to come.
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