Rohit Sharma, the captain of Team India, shared a touching farewell message for Ravichandran Ashwin as he announced his retirement from international cricket. Ashwin chose to step away from the game after the third Test against Australia, which caught many by surprise since the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is currently tied at 1-1 and there are still two matches to go. The experienced spinner only played in one of the first three Tests due to the conditions in Australia not being favorable for spin bowlers. In his final match, he took just one wicket with the pink ball, as the Adelaide pitch didn’t provide any help for spin. The 38-year-old was also left out of the third Test in Brisbane, with Ravindra Jadeja taking his place.

Rohit, who was there with Ashwin at the press conference when he made his big announcement, shared a heartfelt message for the spin legend. He mentioned that many young bowlers in the future will definitely look to mimic Ashwin's iconic style.

"We’ve been teammates for so long and made countless memories that I’ll always treasure. You’ve been a game-changer from day one and have inspired so many young bowlers coming up. I have no doubt we’ll see a lot of new talent trying to master the classic Ashwin action," Rohit posted on Instagram.

The Indian captain praised Ashwin as a genuine legend of cricket worldwide and sent his best wishes to him and his family.

"You’re a real original and a legend in both Indian and world cricket, and this team is going to feel your absence. Wishing you and your wonderful family all the best for the future," he said.

Ashwin finished his career as India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests.

Ashwin wrapped up his impressive Test career with 537 wickets across 106 matches, boasting an average of 24.00. This places him seventh on the all-time wicket-takers list and second among Indian bowlers, just behind Anil Kumble's 619. He also featured in 116 ODIs, contributing to the teams that clinched the 2011 World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy. Additionally, he played 65 T20Is for India.

With Ashwin announcing his retirement, he won’t be part of the last two Tests in Australia, leaving Jadeja and Washington Sundar as the only spinners left in the squad.

Read Also: Ashwin didn't discuss with selectors and wouldn't tour Australia unless his conditions were met; Gambhir's input was crucial.

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