Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket earlier this week, concluding his career following the completion of the Gabba Test against Australia. At 38 years of age, he concludes his journey as India's second-highest wicket-taker across all formats, trailing only Anil Kumble. Ashwin has established himself as one of India's most significant match-winners in Test cricket, having received 11 Player of the Series awards, the highest for any male cricketer in this format.

Throughout his illustrious career, Ashwin was often compared to another iconic Indian spinner, Harbhajan Singh. There have been longstanding rumors suggesting discord between the two, leading to speculation about a rift.

However, in the wake of Ashwin's retirement, Harbhajan Singh addressed these rumours, asserting that they are unfounded. 

"I engage with social media only to the extent necessary. If there were any issues between Ashwin and me, or if we had ever experienced a conflict, I would be the first to approach him to discuss it," Harbhajan Singh stated on his YouTube channel. 

"But that has never been the case, nor will it be, as each of us will receive what is destined for us. He has been an exceptional bowler for India, and I am genuinely pleased with his accomplishments," he further remarked.

'Little vocal about pitches in India'

Harbhajan Singh clarified that he does not harbour any personal issues with Ashwin. He expressed his discontent with the Indian management's tendency to prepare pitches that heavily favour spin, resulting in matches concluding within two to three days.

"If individuals choose to distort my statements on Twitter to suggest that I have a conflict with Ashwin, that is their interpretation. I have been outspoken regarding the quality of the pitches in India, which tend to be excessively spin-friendly, leading to matches finishing in approximately two and a half days," Harbhajan remarked.

Throughout Ashwin's career, some critics have claimed that the off-spinner's success in taking wickets is largely due to the favourable conditions for spinners from the outset of Test matches.

"My vocal stance on this issue has generated considerable discussion on social media, leading some to believe that I have a personal issue with a specific player. In reality, I hold no grievances against anyone; I have great respect for all players, as representing the country is a significant achievement. They are my peers and my brothers, regardless of age," Harbhajan added.

Ashwin has achieved 765 wickets in international cricket over 379 innings, while Harbhajan Singh concluded his career with 707 wickets in 442 innings.

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