Ravichandran Ashwin gives a reply to Virat Kohli’s post on Ashwin’s retirement.

Summary: Virat Kohli’s emotional post on Ashwin’s retirement gets an amazing response from Ashwin himself.

Ravichandran Ashwin, an ace Indian spinner, startled the cricketing world by retiring from international cricket on the penultimate day of the third Test against Australia in Brisbane. 

Two days later, Ashwin used social media to reply to messages from colleagues, fans, and well-wishers, blending appreciation with his trademark wit.

It’s tough to outthink Ravichandran Ashwin on the cricket pitch. And honestly, it might be even tougher to match his cleverness with words. Just a few days after Virat Kohli shared how Ashwin's retirement had hit him emotionally, reminding him of the countless memories they've built over 14 years with Team India, the legendary all-rounder responded with a fantastic one-liner. 

Virat Kohli wrote, "I've played with you for 14 years and when you told me today you're retiring, it made me a bit emotional and the flashbacks of all those years playing together came to me. I've enjoyed every bit of the journey with you Ash; your skill and match-winning contributions to Indian cricket are second to none, and you will always and always be remembered as a legend of Indian cricket. Wish you nothing but the best in your life with your family and everything else that it unfolds for you. With massive respect and lots of love to you and your close ones. Thanks for everything buddy.”

To which Ashwin responded with, "Thanks buddy! Like I told you, I will be walking out with you to bat at the MCG.”

Now back in Chennai, Ashwin posted on X that he would be with him during the Boxing Day Test match against Australia, which begins on December 26.

Kohli’s heartfelt embrace with Ashwin during the rain delay on Day 5 of the third Test got everyone talking about Ashwin possibly retiring. The two were spotted sharing an intense conversation in the dressing room, with Ashwin visibly trying to hold back his emotions. 

Moments later, he joined captain Rohit Sharma to face the press, where he revealed his retirement decision to everyone. 

Ashwin wrapped up his impressive 14-year international journey with a remarkable tally of 537 wickets, averaging 24 across 106 Tests. This achievement makes him India’s second all-time leading wicket-taker, right behind the legendary leg-spinner Anil Kumble. 

Along the way, he also notched up a stunning 37 five-wicket hauls in Tests, which ranks as the second-highest ever, alongside eight ten-wicket hauls.