India’s ace spinner Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement from all formats of international cricket on Wednesday (December 18).

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’s sudden retirement call left the entire cricket fraternity shocked, including his long-time spin bowling partner Ravindra Jadeja, who revealed that he got to know about the legendary off-spinner's retirement just five minutes before the press conference.

Ashwin and Jadeja formed one of the most formidable bowling partnerships in the longest format, claiming 587 wickets between them in 58 Tests that they played together.

"I got to know about the retirement at the last moment, five minutes before the press conference. It was shocking. We spent the whole day together, and he didn’t even give me a hint. I got to know at the last minute. We all know how Ashwin’s mind works," Jadeja told reporters at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Saturday (December 21).

Jadeja, who shared a healthy rapport with Ashwin, called the latter his "on-field mentor". However, the left-arm spinner feels youngsters should now look to grab the opportunity after Ashwin’s retirement.

"He is like my on-field mentor. We have been playing together for so many years. We kept passing messages to each other on the field regarding the match situation, what the batters are trying to do," Jadeja stated.

"I will miss all this. We just hope that we get a better all-rounder and bowler than Ashwin. It's not like nobody can replace a player. Everyone goes, but you do get the replacement. We have to move on. In India, we always have good talents; it is not like anyone is irreplaceable. We will have to move on. It is a golden opportunity for any youngster to grab this opportunity," he added.

Ravindra Jadeja played a brilliant knock of 77 during the third Test against Australia at the Gabba, helping India draw the rain-marred game.

Reflecting on his innings, Jadeja said: “Scoring outside when the team is in a tough position, it gives you confidence.”

“Mindset will be the same. You will have to play according to the match situation and I will play according to the team’s role," he further remarked.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is currently tied at 1-1. The fourth and penultimate Test of the series will be played at the iconic MCG from December 26.