“One should retire when people ask why, not when they ask why not.” These wise words from Vijay Merchant, a brilliant Test batsman and a keen reader of the game, still ring true today.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s decision to hang up his boots suddenly and fly back to Chennai has left everyone in shock. Why did Ashwin take this drastic step? What made him say goodbye to Australia in such a hurry?
The reactions are pouring in—from his father, ex-cricketers, commentators, journalists, and fans. Almost everyone seems to be searching for answers. And that, perhaps, is the beauty of Ashwin’s decision.
Now imagine if he had stayed on for three more years. By then, he would have crossed 40. Would the team have been able to justify his place if his form had dipped? With Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, and Yuzvendra Chahal waiting in the wings, how long could Ashwin have held on before blocking their path?
Today, Ashwin leaves on a high. The praises are heartfelt, the stats are glowing, and his legacy is celebrated. Had he overstayed, the applause might have faded into polite claps, and the glory could have given way to questions.
Ashwin has always been a master of timing—on the 22 yards and, now, on the larger stage of life. Like the qualified engineer he is, he’s calibrated his exit with precision, showing us that timing isn’t just about cricket; it’s a life skill.
Retirement doesn’t come easy to us Indians. Look at our politicians, sportsmen even doctors. We seldom hang our boots till we are chased off the field !
One wicket in his last test, dropped from next test, unlikely to be picked for next test because of Jadeja contribution with bat, what high we are talking? He should have retired before series. Midway is controversial.
The only regret is no reaction from BCCI as yet. The association can make a memorable send off.
Yes sir …. Leaving midway is cheating … ditching the team
@Sudha Shankar Ray It’s not about cheating or ditching the team, but about knowing when to move on. It is, at end of the day, a very personal decision.
I have seen surgeons with trembling hands scrubbing up and sitting inside the theater while a newby ” ghost surgeon ” operates in their name, ive seen Physicians with dementia sitting poker faced in their suits while junior Physicians write prescriptions on their behalf….ive even seen a prime minister who couldn’t complete a full sentence run the country for 3 years …..
Discussion is not about his ability as all rounder, it’s about his timing of retirement.