PM Modi Hails Ashwin’s Legacy: A Spinner Who Wove Magic on the Cricket Field

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Ravichandran Ashwin, the off-spin maestro, on his illustrious international cricket career. Ashwin, who recently announced his retirement, was lauded by the Prime Minister for his extraordinary contributions to the game. PM Modi expressed that Ashwin’s iconic “jersey no. 99 will be sorely missed” on the cricket field.

After a stellar 14-year international career, Ashwin’s journey concluded following the Gabba Test, which ended in a draw. Known for being one of India’s greatest match-winners, his final international appearance was the day-night Test against Australia in Adelaide, where he demonstrated his prowess by taking 1-53 in 18 overs and contributing 29 runs with the bat.

In a personal letter to Ashwin, PM Modi likened his unexpected retirement to a surprise carrom ball, stating, “The announcement of your retirement from international cricket surprised fans in India and across the world. At a time when everyone was looking forward to many more off-breaks, you bowled a carrom ball that bowled everyone. However, everyone understands that this must have been a hard decision for you, especially after the outstanding career you have had playing for India.”

Highlighting Ashwin’s skill and strategic acumen, the Prime Minister added, “Cricket lovers will miss the sense of expectation they felt when you took to the crease to bowl – there was always a feeling that you were weaving a web around the opponents. You possessed an uncanny ability to outwit batsmen with good old off-spin as well as innovative variations.”

Ashwin debuted on the international stage in 2010 in an ODI against Sri Lanka and made his Test debut a year later against the West Indies. Across formats, he played 106 Tests, 116 ODIs, and 65 T20Is, amassing an impressive 765 wickets and leaving an indelible mark on Indian cricket.

In his letter, PM Modi also commended Ashwin for his off-field conduct, calling him an ambassador of the sport. He extended gratitude to Ashwin’s family, acknowledging their sacrifices in supporting his remarkable journey.

“As an ambassador of the game, both on and off the field, you have made the nation and your family proud. I take this opportunity to congratulate your parents, your wife Prithi, and your daughters. Their sacrifices and support, I am sure, have been crucial to your growth as a cricketer and as a person. I hope you get to spend more time with them and continue contributing to the game you dearly love.”

The letter concluded with the Prime Minister expressing his best wishes for Ashwin’s future endeavors, underlining his hope that Ashwin would find new ways to contribute to cricket beyond the field.

Ashwin’s retirement marks the end of an era, leaving cricket fans with cherished memories of his unmatched skills and unforgettable performances.