India’s ace spinner Ravichandran Ashwin landed in Chennai on Thursday (December 19) morning, less than 24 hours after he announced his international retirement with immediate effect.
Upon reaching his residence in Chennai, the 38-year-old received a hero's welcome. He was greeted with traditional music, garlands, and warm hugs from his parents.
While Ashwin refused to interact with the media at Chennai airport, he spoke to a select group of reporters outside his residence.
When asked if he regretted not leading the Indian team during his illustrious career, Ashwin replied: "I can't any more. It's done. No, I have zero regrets. I have seen so many people with regrets from afar, but I don't want to live my life like that."
After Ashwin made the surprise retirement call, there were some speculations that he was disappointed by limited overseas Test opportunities. However, Ashwin refuted such talks, emphasizing his happiness and contentment with his career.
"I am laughing; you can see I am happy," he said, expressing excitement about playing for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).
"I want to be idle-no immediate plans. Being idle is difficult for me," Ashwin quipped.
He added: "I am going to play for CSK, and don't be surprised if I try and aspire to play for as long as I can. I don't think Ashwin the cricketer is done. I think Ashwin the Indian cricketer has probably called it time. That's it."
Ashwin got emotional as he addressed the crowd gathered at his residence, reminiscing about a similar reception after India's 2011 World Cup triumph.
"Thanks to all of you. I didn't expect so many of you to come. I thought I would quietly reach home, but you've all made my day. The last time it was like this was when I returned home after the 2011 World Cup. It brought back those memories," he said.
Ashwin represented India in 106 Tests, 116 ODIs, and 65 T20Is, picking up 765 wickets across all formats. He finished his career as the country’s second highest wicket-taker (537 scalps) in Test cricket, only behind Anil Kumble’s record tally of 619 dismissals.
