Former India spinner Erapalli Prasanna has expressed 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 player he is. He is up there with the greatest spinners of all time. You also have to take into account the chances he didn’t get when the team traveled abroad. I don’t think they treated him well because he was very good even when he played away,” said Prasanna.
The former spinner lamented Ashwin’s decision, saying, “I think these factors influenced his withdrawal. It’s a sad day for Indian cricket.”
Ashwin announced his retirement on Wednesday after India’s third Test against Australia in Brisbane 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,” Ashwin said.
“I feel there is still a bit of strength in me as a cricketer, but I would like to express that and show it at 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.
Furthermore, he also scored 3,503 Tests, including six centuries and 14 fifties, making him one of the best all-rounders of his generation.
Prasanna, who took 189 wickets in 49 Tests, praised Ashwin’s exceptional contributions.
“I’m really proud of him and I admire him for taking spin to such a high level. Frankly, I doubt anyone could imitate him; he is so unique. This is really a big concern for India right now,” Prasanna said.
He further highlighted the void that Ashwin’s retirement creates in the team.
“Ashwin’s absence is a huge void because he is the guy who gave you middle management. I mean no disrespect to Washington (Sundar), but there are a lot of off-spinners who can do what he does – flat, fast, without really spinning, more so, sewing. No one can do what Ashwin did and I don’t think we will be able to fill that void for long,” he added.
