Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India’s most accomplished off-spinners, left the cricketing world stunned with his sudden retirement announcement following the Gaba Test during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. His father, Ravichandran, has shed light on the circumstances leading to this shocking decision, hinting at a deeper emotional and personal turmoil.
Insults and Humiliation
In an interview with a TV channel, Ashwin's father revealed that the decision might have stemmed from the disrespect and humiliation Ashwin had been facing. “How long could he tolerate it? That is probably why he made this sudden decision to retire,” he remarked.
While he respected Ashwin’s autonomy in making the choice, Ravichandran admitted that the announcement came as a surprise to the family.
“I found out about his retirement at the last moment,” he said. “It was his wish and decision, and I cannot interfere in it. But perhaps the humiliation he endured played a big role in his choice.”
Emotional Homecoming
After retiring, Ashwin returned to Chennai on Thursday morning and headed straight home. His father acknowledged the emotional impact on the family, stating, “This is undoubtedly an emotional moment for us. He was on the field for 14-15 years, and this sudden change surprised us. But we also expected it to some extent because of the insults he had been facing.”
Ravichandran emphasized that while the decision was shocking, it might have been a necessary step for Ashwin’s peace of mind.
A Pillar of Support
Throughout his illustrious career, Ashwin’s father played a pivotal role in shaping his cricketing journey. A fast bowler in club cricket, Ravichandran encouraged his son to pursue the sport. When Ashwin transitioned from a batsman to an off-spinner to secure a spot in the Ranji Trophy team, his father stood firmly by his side.
Reflecting on his son’s career, Ravichandran expressed mixed feelings about the retirement. “I was happy because it was his decision, but also unhappy because I wanted him to continue playing,” he said. “I hoped he would stay with the senior national team longer.”
A legacy of grit, skill
The abrupt retirement has left fans and cricketing circles speculating about the underlying causes. Ashwin, a veteran of over 14 years, leaves behind a legacy of grit, skill, and match-winning performances. However, his father’s revelations point to the struggles players often endure behind the scenes.
For now, the exact reasons behind Ashwin’s decision remain with him. As his father aptly summarized, “I do not know what was going on in Ashwin’s mind. He made the announcement, and I accepted it with happiness, even though I wished he had continued playing.”
Ashwin’s retirement marks the end of an era, but it also raises questions about the pressures and challenges faced by elite athletes, often hidden from the public eye.
Ashwin Responds
Ashwin took to social media on Thursday to address his father's comments, stating, "My father is not trained to talk to the media. I never anticipated that his statement would be taken so seriously. I kindly ask everyone to leave him alone and forgive him." He added a laughing emoji to convey a lighthearted tone in his message.
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