On Wednesday, the cricketing community, including fans, current and former players, and analysts, was taken aback by Ravichandran Ashwin's sudden announcement of his retirement from international cricket. The shock was amplified by the fact that India was in the midst of their tour in Australia. At 38 years of age, Ashwin had been selected over other contenders but found himself sidelined for the opening match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Perth, as Gautam Gambhir opted for Washington Sundar instead. Reports indicate that Ashwin was profoundly disappointed by this decision, and it was only after the return of regular captain Rohit Sharma that he was reinstated in the playing XI for the second Test.

However, unlike the first Test, India faced a defeat in Adelaide, resulting in the series being leveled at 1-1. Subsequently, Ashwin was once again omitted from the lineup for the third Test in Brisbane, where India managed to secure a draw, aided by rain. The unexpected announcement of his retirement occurred during the post-match press conference, where Ashwin, accompanied by skipper Rohit, informed reporters of his decision to step away from international cricket. Throughout his career, Ashwin was recognized as a formidable player in home conditions, although some critics deemed him less effective in overseas Test matches. Cheteshwar Pujara, however, disagrees with this assessment. In an interview with ESPNCricinfo, Pujara emphasized that Ashwin's performances in away matches are often "underrated," citing a notable instance involving Steve Smith.

"Yes, it is underrated. When he performs the way he performs in India, it often results in five-wicket hauls or three or four wickets, but there are occasions when he secures two or three crucial wickets abroad, and those are significant. For instance, getting Smith out in Melbourne in 2020 was one of those key wickets overseas," he remarked.

‘Not about picking a fifer’: Pujara

It is not solely a matter of securing a five-wicket haul. The focus lies in capturing two or three crucial wickets to bolster the efforts of the other bowlers. In overseas conditions, the primary objective for a fast bowler is to achieve five-wicket hauls or inflict significant damage. In contrast, Ashwin's role is more supportive, as he is tasked with claiming those vital two or three key wickets, a contribution that is often underestimated, he remarked.

Ashwin has already arrived in Chennai and is no longer engaged in international duties. He has participated in 40 away Test matches for India, claiming 150 wickets, which include eight five-wicket hauls and two instances of ten-wicket hauls. In addition, during 65 home matches, he has taken 383 wickets, with 29 five-wicket hauls and six ten-wicket hauls to his name. In a single Test match played at a neutral venue, he secured four wickets.

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