It's tough to outsmart Ravichandran Ashwin on the cricket pitch, and it's just as challenging, if not more so, to match him in a battle of wits. Just a couple of days after Virat Kohli shared how Ashwin's retirement news hit him hard and made him reflect on their 14 years of memories together, the legendary all-rounder responded with a clever one-liner.

"I've played alongside you for 14 years, and when you told me today about your retirement, it really got to me. I started reminiscing about all those years we spent playing together. I've loved every moment of this journey with you, Ash. Your talent and game-changing contributions to Indian cricket are unmatched, and you'll always be remembered as a true legend of the game. I wish you nothing but the best in life with your family and whatever else comes your way. Sending you massive respect and lots of love to you and your loved ones. Thanks for everything, buddy," Kohli wrote on December 18, just hours after Ashwin announced his international retirement at the Gabba in Brisbane.

Sure thing! Here’s a different take on that text: Ashwin, now back in Chennai, posted on X, "Thanks, man! As I mentioned, I’ll be walking out with you to bat at the MCG for the Boxing Day Test against Australia starting December 26."

Kohli's heartfelt embrace with Ashwin during the rain delay on Day 5 of the third Test got everyone talking about Ashwin possibly retiring. The two were spotted having a deep conversation in the dressing room, with Ashwin struggling to hold back his tears. Shortly after, he joined captain Rohit Sharma to face the media and share the news of his retirement.

Ashwin hangs up his boots as one of the legends of Indian cricket.

I really don’t want to focus on myself here. Today marks my final day as an international cricketer, and it’s been an incredible journey. I’ve shared so many great moments with Rohit Sharma and my teammates, even though we’ve seen some of them retire in recent years. We’re definitely the last of the original crew, that’s for sure. I’ll always remember this day as a milestone in my career at this level, Ashwin shared.

As for red-ball cricket, it’s been my specialty. I’ve played in 106 Tests, taken an impressive 537 wickets, including 37 five-wicket hauls, and scored 3,503 runs. Honestly, you could say my impact on Indian cricket goes way beyond those impressive stats.

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