Ravichandran Ashwin reveals desire to retire after 100th Test
What's the story
Ravichandran Ashwin, who retired from international cricket on December 18, 2024, revealed a shocking fact recently.
He had initially planned to retire after the India-England Test series in March last year.
Ashwin made the revelation during the launch of Chennai Super Kings's book 'Leo—The Untold Story.'
He had invited former captain MS Dhoni to present him a memento at his 100th Test match in Dharamsala (March 7-9, 2024), which he wanted to be his last game for Team India.
Final match
Ashwin's 100th Test: A memorable farewell
Ashwin, India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests and international cricket, played his landmark 100th Test against England at the HPCA Stadium from March 7-9, 2024.
He took four wickets for 51 runs in the first innings and dismissed five English batters for 77 runs in the second innings.
His performance helped India achieve a massive victory by an innings and a margin of 64 runs.
Career trajectory
Ashwin's post-100th Test career and return to CSK
After his historic 100th Test, Ashwin played two Tests against Bangladesh (Sep-Oct), three Tests against New Zealand (Oct-Nov), and one Test against Australia (Dec 2024).
His international career ended after he was dropped from India's playing XI for the third Test against Australia in Brisbane. He announced his retirement from all forms of cricket after the match.
Despite retiring internationally, Ashwin will return to play for CSK in IPL 2025 after being signed for ₹9.75 crore by the Chennai-based franchise during the IPL 2025 mega auction.
Appreciation
Ashwin expresses gratitude to Dhoni for CSK return
Ashwin was surprised and grateful that Dhoni made it possible for his return to CSK.
He said, "I didn't think he (Dhoni) would give me the gift of getting me back to CSK. It's a much better one. So, thank you, MS, for doing it. I'm glad to be here."
Ashwin had echoed the same at an event in Chennai. Thanking Dhoni for bringing him back to CSK, he had said he wanted his 100th Test in Dharamsala to be his last.