Ashwin finished his illustrious career as India’s second highest Test wicket-taker, behind Kumble.
The 38-year-old confirmed the decision, saying it was his last day as an Indian cricketer while addressing the media at the Gabba, where the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test ended in a draw.
Ashwin finished his illustrious career as India’s second highest Test wicket-taker. He took 537 wickets in 106 matches at an impressive average of 25.76, only behind the legendary Anil Kumble’s tally of 619 Test scalps.
Reacting to Ashwin’s retirement, Kumble expressed his disappointment that the ace off-spinner hung up his boots before surpassing his record number of wickets for India in Test cricket.
"Congratulations, Ash, on a fantastic career. You’ve been a champion bowler for India, a champion all-rounder for India. You’ll certainly be missed. It’s not that easy, carrying that kind of expectation day in and day out. You’ve done it right throughout your career. You’ve been a match-winner for India, and Team India will certainly miss you," Kumble said in a video shared by ESPNCricinfo.
"I, for one, am a bit disappointed that you ended your career today at the international level. Ideally, I would have wanted to see you go beyond 619, but you have your reasons for that," he added.
Kumble also extended his best wishes to Ashwin for his future endeavours. "All the best to you in your second chapter. And I am sure it will be as glorious as chapter one. So, Ash, here’s to a fantastic career that you’ve had for India. And congratulations once again. All the very best. Catch you soon," he concluded.
Ashwin accompanied skipper Rohit Sharma for the press-conference, where he made a rather quick announcement about his retirement.
“There's a bit left in me as a cricketer, but I would like to exploit it at the domestic and club-level cricket, but this would be the last day (at the international level),” Ashwin told reporters.
“I have had a lot of fun, a lot of memories alongside Rohit and several of my other teammates. We've lost some of them over the last few years, we've been the last bunch of OGs I can say that are left out in the dressing room. I can mark this as my last day in the dressing room,” he added.
After wrapping up the post-match presser, Ashwin collected a signed Australia jersey from his off-spin counterpart Nathan Lyon and skipper Pat Cummins. He then delivered a stirring farewell speech in the Indian dressing room.
“The international cricketer in me might have come to an end, but the cricket nut in me will never come to an end. All the very best. If at all, you guys need anything, I am just a phone call away,” Ashwin said.
Ashwin also represented his country in 116 ODIs and 65 T20Is, picking up 156 and 72 wickets respectively. He was part of India’s 2011 World Cup triumph and 2013 Champions Trophy title win.