New Delhi: Unable to understand R Ashwin’s sudden decision to retire from international cricket, World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev has said that the premier off-spinner deserves a fitting farewell on home soil.
Ashwin surprised everyone by announcing his resignation on Wednesday after the Brisbane Test against Australia ended in a draw.
Kapil felt something bad happened to Ashwin.
“I was shocked by how one of India’s greatest cricketers decided to retire. There was disappointment among the fans, but I also saw a shadow of hurt on his face. He looked sad, and that was sad. He deserved better. , a A fitting farewell,” Kapil said in a statement to PTI.
As was his wish, Ashwin chose to go his own way as he retired in the middle of a crucial series. Kapil said that he wants to hear the story of the people of Tamil Nadu.
“He could have waited and announced his retirement on Indian soil, but I don’t know why Ashwin called it a day. I want to hear his side of the story. Give him that respect. He has played 106 Tests for the country. I don’t think his role in Indian cricket is worth it. One can match the incomparable contribution.
Kapil hoped that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) would give Ashwin a “grand farewell”.
“I am confident that BCCI, the parent body of cricket in India, will plan a grand farewell for this huge match winner of Team India,” he said.
The 65-year-old Kapil said Ashwin was a skilled, versatile and unorthodox bowler, who constantly threatened the batsman with his change of pace and clever line and length.
“He was ready to experiment, and that’s what set him apart. In a game where batsmen get a lot of praise, Ashwin stood out with his prowess.
“Ashwin was brave. He could bowl at any stage of the tournament. Can you find bowlers with such strong tactical intelligence who can adapt quickly? He was his captain’s go-to man,” he said.
Praising both his cricketing brain and off-field character, Kapil said Ashwin was a match-winner unmatched in modern cricket.
“He has won India’s most number of Man of the Series awards. It is a great compliment to put his game and consistency in perspective. He was not a ‘yes’ man and came across as a fearsome fighter.
“He was a rare spinner who could bowl a new ball like Anil Kumble. Thank God, I didn’t have to play with him. I would have lost my place to Ashwin.
“He could bat, bowl, field. He had a carrom ball, a great slower; if needed, he could also produce a leg-spinner. Amazing. He could do everything possible on the cricket field,” he said. Praising the man who finished with 537 Test wickets.
“Only a champion is not immune, and Ashwin was a champion. He has given us great happiness. I wish him all the happiness in the world,” he said.