BGT 2024-25: Find what Ravichandran Ashwin wants to do after retirement!
Xtra Time Web Desk: Ravichandran Ashwin received a heartwarming welcome at his residence in Chennai on Thursday, 19 December, after returning home from Australia. He didn't even wait the series to be completed to announce his retirement.
While being asked why he chose not to complete the five-Test series in Australia before announcing his retirement at airport, he declined to address the media initially but later spoke to the media at his residence.
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When asked if he regretted not captaining the senior national team in his prolonged career; he replied, "I can't any more. It's done." And further added, "No, I have zero regrets. I have seen so many people with regrets from afar, but I don't want to live my life like that."
A surprise announcement was made by Ashwin on Wednesday, revealing his decision at the Gabba press room after the third Test ended in a draw. His mid-series retirement sparked mixed reactions, with some speculating he was disappointed by limited overseas Test opportunities. However, Ashwin dismissed such rumours, emphasising his happiness and contentment with his career."I am laughing; you can see I am happy," he said, expressing excitement about playing for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL).
#WATCH | Ravichandran Ashwin says, "...I am going to play for CSK and don't be surprised if I try and aspire to play for as long as I can. I don't think Ashwin the cricketer is done, I think Ashwin the Indian cricketer has probably called it time. That's it."
— ANI (@ANI) December 19, 2024
When asked if… https://t.co/wm7IaTfuGd pic.twitter.com/vaNvUHsNYR
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When asked about his immediate plans, Ashwin's characteristic wit shone through."I want to be idle-no immediate plans. Being idle is difficult for me," he joked.He added: "I am going to play for CSK, and don't be surprised if I try and aspire to play for as long as I can. I don't think Ashwin the cricketer is done. I think Ashwin the Indian cricketer has probably called it time. That's it."
Further talking to the crowd, he told "Thanks to all of you. I didn't expect so many of you to come. I thought I would quietly reach home, but you've all made my day. The last time it was like this was when I returned home after the 2011 World Cup. It brought back those memories."
