The cricketing world has seen many legends bid farewell to the game, but only a few have done so mid-series, leaving fans and teammates stunned. India’s ongoing tour of Australia witnessed another such emotional moment as R Ashwin, one of India’s greatest all-rounders, announced his retirement from international cricket. Here’s a look at three iconic Indian cricketers who retired mid-series, including the latest addition to the list, Ravichandran Ashwin.
Indian cricketers who retired in mid-series
Anil Kumble
The legendary spinner and India’s highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, Anil Kumble, announced his retirement during the Australia tour of India in 2008. Ahead of the third Test at Feroz Shah Kotla (now Arun Jaitley Stadium) in New Delhi, Kumble stunned fans by declaring that he would no longer don the Indian jersey. His decision came after he sustained a severe finger injury, which significantly impacted his performance.
MS Dhoni
The charismatic leader MS Dhoni shocked the cricketing world when he announced his retirement from Test cricket during India’s 2014 tour of Australia. The decision came after the third Test of the series at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Known for his unflappable demeanor, Dhoni handed over the captaincy reins to Virat Kohli and bid adieu to the longest format of the game. During his Test career, Dhoni played 90 matches, scoring 4,876 runs at an average of 38.09.
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R Ashwin
The most recent addition to this list is Ravichandran Ashwin, who announced his retirement after the third Test of India’s 2024-25 tour of Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane. Ashwin, one of India’s finest all-rounders, decided to step away from international cricket but confirmed that he would continue playing club cricket. The announcement marked the end of an era for Indian cricket, as Ashwin walked off as the second-highest wicket-taker for India in Test cricket.
