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Star Indian allrounder Ravichandran Ashwin has announced his immediate retirement from international cricket.
Ashwin made the announcement Wednesday at a hastily-called media conference following the drawn test between Australia and India at the Gabba, reports AP.
“It’s a very emotional moment,” Ashwin said. “I have had a lot of fun, I have made a lot of memories alongside Rohit (captain Sharma) and my other teammates.”
Ashwin played 106 tests for India since his 2011 debut, taking 537 wickets. He took more wickets against Australia than any other country, with 115 at 28.58 in 23 tests against them.
Sharma said he was aware of Ashwin’s desire to walk away before the start of the series, but convinced him to play in Adelaide last week.
The 38-year-old spinner was then left out of the third test in Brisbane, with Ravindra Jadeja taking his spot.
“He felt if I am not needed now in the series, I am better off saying goodbye to the team,” captain Rohit Sharma said.
Ashwin’s call means he will not be available for the final two tests in Australia, with Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar the two remaining spinners in the squad.