Ravichandran Ashwin Announces Retirement from International Cricket

The Indian spin legend's unexpected decision highlights the challenges of transitioning from a celebrated sports career to life beyond the game.

Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India's most successful spinners, has announced his retirement from international cricket, ending an illustrious 18-year career.
Ashwin's sudden decision follows a pattern of notable cricket retirements, including those of MS Dhoni, AB de Villiers, and Sourav Ganguly, which often caught fans and teammates by surprise.
The announcement reflects the emotional and psychological difficulties faced by elite athletes when stepping away from their sport, as they navigate the loss of identity and purpose.
Ashwin's career was marked by exceptional performances across formats, but like many cricketers, his retirement underscores the abrupt and unceremonious nature of exits in professional sports.
The broader conversation around Ashwin's retirement sheds light on the unique pressures of athletic careers, where early peaks are followed by long periods of reflection and reinvention.