Ravichandran Ashwin’s, one of India’s greatest cricketers, has retired from international cricket. He ended a stellar career as the nation’s second-highest wicket-taker in Test history. Ashwin, known for his exceptional spinner skills and vital contributions with the bat, leaves behind a legacy that will inspire generations of cricketers.

The 37-year-old debuted in 2011 and quickly became a pivotal figure in Indian cricket. Over the years, Ravichandran Ashwin’s amassed an impressive 489 Test wickets, second only to Anil Kumble in India’s all-time rankings. His ability to adapt to different conditions and outsmart some of the best batsmen in the world earned him accolades across all formats.

Ashwin’s retirement marks the end of an era in Indian cricket. His sharp mind and innovative bowling strategies often made the difference in crucial matches, particularly in Tests. Besides his bowling prowess, Ashwin contributed significantly as a lower-order batsman, scoring five Test centuries.

“This will be my last day as an Indian cricket in all formats of the game at the international level. I do feel there is a bit of punch left in me in a cricketer. I would like to showcase that in club-level cricket. So this will be my last day. I have had a lot of fun. I must say I’ve created a lot of memories alongside Rohitt and several of my teammates,” Ashwin said at the press conference.

“Obviously, there are a lot of people to thank. But, I would be failing in my duty if I didn’t thank the BCCI and the rest of my teammates. I want to name a few of them and all the coaches — Rohit, Virat, Ajinkya, and Pujara who have taken all those catches in the slips to help me get those wickets.”

Ashwin also thanked the Australian cricket team for being fierce competitors over the years.

“Also a big thank you to the Australian cricket team. They have been very fierce competitors. I have enjoyed playing alongside them.

“I won’t be taking any questions, but certainly, it’s a very emotional moment.”

Speculation about his retirement was rife after he was seen hugging former captain Virat Kohli in the dressing room at Gabba during a rain interruption on Wednesday. Ashwin and Kohli had an intense chat in the dressing room, leading to rumors on social media.

Ashwin ensured the rumors did not stay for long as he confirmed the call right after the third Test ended in a draw.

Gautam Gambhir, a former Indian cricketer and current commentator, is under fire for his comments regarding Ravindra Jadeja’s one of India’s premier all-rounders. Fans and analysts have taken issue with Gambhir’s critique, especially in light of Ravindra Jadeja’s remarkable achievements that position him among the game’s elite players.

Ravindra Jadeja, the ICC’s No. 1-ranked all-rounder, boasts impressive statistics that surpass even some of cricket’s legends, including Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma, in certain contexts. His contributions with both bat and ball have been crucial for India in all formats of the game, yet Gambhir’s recent remarks seem to downplay these feats.

Statistically, Jadeja’s consistency is unparalleled. He has maintained high averages and strike rates while excelling in bowling under pressure. Fans argue that comparing his numbers to cricket greats reveals his immense value to Indian cricket. His performances in Test matches, particularly in challenging overseas conditions, have been instrumental in India’s success.

Critics of Gambhir’s stance assert that his remarks undermine Jadeja’s legacy as an all-rounder. Social media platforms were flooded with support for Jadeja, highlighting his match-winning contributions and unmatched versatility. Fans have called for greater recognition of the all-rounder’s achievements, urging commentators like Gambhir to acknowledge his importance.

India’s WTC Final chances are at risk as rain continues to affect the Brisbane Test against Australia. With the ICC World Test Championship qualification at stake, this match plays a pivotal role in deciding India’s pathway to the final. Rain interruptions have hindered Australia’s push to enforce the follow-on, giving India a potential lifeline.

Australia took an early lead in the match, showcasing dominant performances with both bat and ball. However, persistent rainfall has disrupted their plans to finish the game strongly. For India, the inclement weather has provided a much-needed opportunity to recover and aim for a draw, which is crucial for keeping their WTC hopes alive.

Currently, Australia sits comfortably at the top of the WTC standings (India’s WTC Final chances), while India faces mounting pressure to secure crucial points. Analysts have pointed out that India’s first-innings batting collapse has only made their road to the final tougher. A draw in Brisbane would offer India some relief, but subsequent matches will demand consistent victories to secure a spot in the WTC Final.

As rain continues to impact the game, both teams face uncertainty, with the result holding significant implications for the WTC standings. Fans eagerly await the resolution of this rain-affected clash.