During India's tour of Australia in 2024, senior bowler Ashwin lost his place in the XI and decided to retire at the end of the series.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
At an event in Kolkata on Tuesday, Ashwin opened up about the moment he realised his time with the Indian team had come to an end. \u201cAt Perth, I was the senior bowler. Washi (Washington Sundar) played that Test, and I realised that my time was up,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
His retirement after the Brisbane Test prompted criticism of the team management, especially after Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli also stepped away following the series. Head coach Gautam Gambhir faced trolling on social media amid suggestions that senior players had been pushed towards retirement. Ashwin, however, dismissed that narrative and backed Gambhir\u2019s approach.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cI like Gautam, and many people may have different opinions about him, but he is someone who always puts the team ahead of individuals,\u201d Ashwin said. \u201cHe credits the team, not individuals, and that\u2019s something I admire.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Ashwin also spoke about the culture within the Indian dressing room and the importance of looking beyond individual stars. \u201cThere is more to Indian cricket than just a couple of people,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Reflecting on his long association with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, Ashwin highlighted the bond within the group during their years together. \u201cThe best part about us was that none of us blamed each other. We all wanted India to win and make the country proud. We were motivated to do that,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Ashwin also spoke about the culture within the Indian dressing room and the importance of looking beyond individual stars. \u201cThere is more to Indian cricket than just a couple of people,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cBowling is not as effective as batting, and that\u2019s where the concern lies.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n