After Ravichandran Ashwin, Floodgates Opened For Big Retirements? Report Says, "Summer Of 2025..."

R Ashwin's sudden and abrupt retirement could be the first installment of more such announcements in the near future.

After 288 matches and more than 750 wickets, ace off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin decided to call it quits as far as international cricket is concerned. He signed off with a staggering 537 wickets in 106 Tests, ending his career as India's second-highest wicket-taker in the format after the legendary Anil Kumble (619). Ashwin's retirement announcement came as a shock to many, including star batter Virat Kohli, while India captain Rohit Sharma was aware of the decision before the start of the ongoing series Down Under.

However, Ashwin's sudden and abrupt retirement could be the first installment of more such announcements in the near future.

According to a report in Cricbuzz, the Indian team is expected to enter a transitional phase, most likely after the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord's in June next year, but only if they reach there.

"How much of this decision is planned, voluntary, or subtly influenced is difficult to determine, but the Indian team is expected to undergo a transformation soon - possibly by the start of their next Test series in England in the coming summer of 2025. As in the past, the credit or discredit will likely be linked to the Test series in Australia. Over the years, Australia tours have gained a notorious reputation for bringing cricketing careers to an agonising end," the report stated.