Former Indian spinner Erapalli Prasanna voiced support for Ravichandran Ashwin’s decision to retire from international cricket, suggesting that the 38-year-old was not “treated well” throughout his career.
Speaking to an Indian media outlet, Prasanna reflected on Ashwin’s contributions and the challenges he faced.
“What an incredible bowler he is. He is right up there with the greatest spinners of all time. You should also account for the chances he didn’t get when the team was travelling abroad. I don’t think they treated him well because he was actually very good even when he was playing away," Prasanna said.
The former spinner expressed regret over Ashwin’s decision, stating, “I think these factors played a part in him quitting. It’s a sad day for Indian cricket."
Ashwin announced his retirement on Wednesday, following India’s third Test against Australia in Brisbane, which ended in a draw.
The veteran all-rounder revealed his decision during a press conference at the conclusion of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series.
"This will be my last year as an Indian cricketer in all formats at the international level," said Ashwin.
"I feel there's still a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer, but I'd like to express that and showcase it at the club level," he added.
He leaves behind a stellar legacy in international cricket. With 537 wickets in 106 Tests at an average of 24, he is India’s second-highest wicket-taker in the format, behind only Anil Kumble.
Additionally, he also scored 3,503 Test runs, including six centuries and 14 fifties, making him one of the finest all-rounders of his generation.
Prasanna, who himself claimed 189 wickets in 49 Tests, lauded Ashwin’s exceptional contributions.
“I am very proud of him, and I admire him for taking spin to such a high level. Frankly, I doubt anyone can emulate him; he’s so unique. This really is a big concern for India at the moment," said Prasanna.
He further highlighted the void Ashwin’s retirement creates in the team.
“Ashwin’s absence is a massive void because he is the guy who gave you middle-over management. I don’t mean to disrespect Washington (Sundar), but there are a lot of off-spinners who can do what he does—flat, fast, not really spin, more so seam up. No one can do what Ashwin did, and I don’t think we will be able to fill that void for a very long time," he added.