New Delhi, India 
R Ashwin shocked the cricketing fraternity, on Wednesday (Dec 18), after announcing his international retirement soon after the India-Australia Gabba Test ended in a draw. After bad light and rain continued to interrupt the Gabba Test, in Brisbane, both sides settled for a draw as the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) is interestingly poised at 1-1. Soon after, Ashwin shared the big news, joining skipper Rohit Sharma in the post-match presser. 
Speculations regarding Ashwin's retirement started doing the rounds on social media after he was seen having a lengthy chat with Virat Kohli during Day 5's play in the Gabba Test. After India's 275-run chase was interrupted, the two shared an emotional moment with Kohli hugging Ashwin, sparking rumours of the latter's retirement. After the official announcement, Kohli shared his reaction on social media.
<h2>'You will always and always be remembered as a legend of Indian cricket'</h2>
Kohli wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "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."
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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… <a href="https://t.co/QGQ2Z7pAgc">pic.twitter.com/QGQ2Z7pAgc</a>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1869269640154923429?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Kohli and Ashwin share a great equation, with the off-spinner being an instrumental part of India's memorable Test wins during Kohli's captaincy. 
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-r-ashwin-announces-international-retirement-after-india-vs-australia-gabba-test-ends-in-draw-784878">Ravichandran Ashwin announces international retirement after India vs Australia Gabba Test ends in draw</a>
At the post-match presser, Ashwin said, "This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats of the game at the international level. I do feel there is a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer. I would like to showcase that in club-level cricket. So this will be my last day. I have had a lot of fun. I must say I've created a lot of memories alongside Rohitt and several of my teammates."
Ashwin signs off with 537, 156 and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, respectively. He played 106 Tests, 116 ODIs and 72 T20Is for India, from 2010-2024, and was part of the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy wins. He ends as India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests and overall (765).
In the ongoing BGT edition, Ashwin only played the second Test, in Adelaide, before stepping aside from the highest level.

An emotional Virat Kohli lauded R Ashwin after the 38-year-old wily off-spinner confirmed his international retirement post the Gabba Test between India and Australia. 



New Delhi, India R Ashwin shocked the cricketing fraternity, on Wednesday (Dec 18), after announcing his international retirement soon after the India-Australia Gabba Test ended in a draw. After bad light and rain continued to interrupt the Gabba Test, in Brisbane, both sides settled for a draw as the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) is interestingly poised at 1-1. Soon after, Ashwin shared the big news, joining skipper Rohit Sharma in the post-match presser. Speculations regarding Ashwin's retirement started doing the rounds on social media after he was seen having a lengthy chat with Virat Kohli during Day 5's play in the Gabba Test. After India's 275-run chase was interrupted, the two shared an emotional moment with Kohli hugging Ashwin, sparking rumours of the latter's retirement. After the official announcement, Kohli shared his reaction on social media. 'You will always and always be remembered as a legend of Indian cricket' Kohli wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "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." 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… pic.twitter.com/QGQ2Z7pAgc — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) December 18, 2024 × Kohli and Ashwin share a great equation, with the off-spinner being an instrumental part of India's memorable Test wins during Kohli's captaincy. Also read: Ravichandran Ashwin announces international retirement after India vs Australia Gabba Test ends in draw At the post-match presser, Ashwin said, "This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats of the game at the international level. I do feel there is a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer. I would like to showcase that in club-level cricket. So this will be my last day. I have had a lot of fun. I must say I've created a lot of memories alongside Rohitt and several of my teammates." Ashwin signs off with 537, 156 and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, respectively. He played 106 Tests, 116 ODIs and 72 T20Is for India, from 2010-2024, and was part of the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy wins. He ends as India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests and overall (765). In the ongoing BGT edition, Ashwin only played the second Test, in Adelaide, before stepping aside from the highest level.

You'll always be remembered as legend of Indian cricket: 'Emotional' Kohli lauds Ashwin after his retirement

New Delhi, India
On Wednesday (Dec 18), R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon after the India versus Australia Gabba Test ended in a draw. The 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) edition has already seen lots of drama and action and Ashwin's retirement comes as a huge surprise.
"This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats of the game at the international level. I do feel there is a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer. I would like to showcase that in club-level cricket. So this will be my last day. I have had a lot of fun. I must say I've created a lot of memories alongside Rohit and several of my teammates," Ashwin said at the post-match press conference.
Ashwin has been a legend of the game. In his 14-year-long international career, the 38-year-old wily spinner ends with 537, 156 and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, respectively. He was part of India's victorious campaigns in the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. In the red-ball format, the veteran steps aside as the seventh-highest wicket-taker overall and second-most among Indians. Only former Indian captain Anil Kumble is ahead of him, with 619 Test scalps. In addition, Ashwin signs off as India's second-highest wicket-taker in internationals with 765 wickets, once again only behind Kumble's tally (953).
Speculations of Ashwin's retirement spread like wildfire just ahead of the final result at The Gabba, Brisbane. He was seen having a lengthy chat with Virat Kohli in the dressing room when India's chase of 275 was halted due to bad light. The two looked emotional as many speculated a retirement on the cards for the spinner. With rain coming back and conditions not looking promising for any further play, both sides settled for a draw before Ashwin joined Rohit in the post-match presser to announce the big news.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-gabba-test-ends-in-a-draw-after-rain-plays-spoilsport-on-day-5-784879">BGT 2024/25: Gabba Test ends in a draw after rain plays spoilsport on Day 5</a>
Apart from his bowling, Ashwin also made a mark as a batter, especially in the longer format. He ended with 3,503 runs and six hundreds at an average of 25.75. He was instrumental in India's dominant run in home Tests, where they were unbeaten for over a decade since 2013. He finished his Test career with as many as 11 Player-of-the-Series awards; most by any player.
Regarding the India-Australia Gabba Test, Rohit-led India opted to bowl first but Australia rode on centuries from Travis Head (152) and Steve Smith (101) to post 445. In reply, India struggled but managed to avoid the follow-on, to end up with 260 on the final day. In reply, Australia declared at 89-7, setting a 275-run target in 54 overs before the bad light and weather had the final say. 
Ashwin only played the second Test, in Adelaide, in the ongoing BGT before hanging his boots. The five-match Test series is currently poised at 1-1.

R Ashwin announced his international retirement after India vs Australia Gabba Test ended in a draw on Wednesday (Dec 18). 



New Delhi, India On Wednesday (Dec 18), R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon after the India versus Australia Gabba Test ended in a draw. The 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) edition has already seen lots of drama and action and Ashwin's retirement comes as a huge surprise. "This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats of the game at the international level. I do feel there is a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer. I would like to showcase that in club-level cricket. So this will be my last day. I have had a lot of fun. I must say I've created a lot of memories alongside Rohit and several of my teammates," Ashwin said at the post-match press conference. Ashwin has been a legend of the game. In his 14-year-long international career, the 38-year-old wily spinner ends with 537, 156 and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, respectively. He was part of India's victorious campaigns in the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. In the red-ball format, the veteran steps aside as the seventh-highest wicket-taker overall and second-most among Indians. Only former Indian captain Anil Kumble is ahead of him, with 619 Test scalps. In addition, Ashwin signs off as India's second-highest wicket-taker in internationals with 765 wickets, once again only behind Kumble's tally (953). Speculations of Ashwin's retirement spread like wildfire just ahead of the final result at The Gabba, Brisbane. He was seen having a lengthy chat with Virat Kohli in the dressing room when India's chase of 275 was halted due to bad light. The two looked emotional as many speculated a retirement on the cards for the spinner. With rain coming back and conditions not looking promising for any further play, both sides settled for a draw before Ashwin joined Rohit in the post-match presser to announce the big news. Also read: BGT 2024/25: Gabba Test ends in a draw after rain plays spoilsport on Day 5 Apart from his bowling, Ashwin also made a mark as a batter, especially in the longer format. He ended with 3,503 runs and six hundreds at an average of 25.75. He was instrumental in India's dominant run in home Tests, where they were unbeaten for over a decade since 2013. He finished his Test career with as many as 11 Player-of-the-Series awards; most by any player. Regarding the India-Australia Gabba Test, Rohit-led India opted to bowl first but Australia rode on centuries from Travis Head (152) and Steve Smith (101) to post 445. In reply, India struggled but managed to avoid the follow-on, to end up with 260 on the final day. In reply, Australia declared at 89-7, setting a 275-run target in 54 overs before the bad light and weather had the final say. Ashwin only played the second Test, in Adelaide, in the ongoing BGT before hanging his boots. The five-match Test series is currently poised at 1-1.

Ravichandran Ashwin announces international retirement after India vs Australia Gabba Test ends in draw

Cycling legend Rik Van Looy, renowned for his prowess in the one-day classics, has died at the age of 90, Belgian media reported on Wednesday. Van Looy was rated as the greatest cycling champion Belgium had produced until the arrival of five-time Tour de France winner Eddy Merckx. Known as the 'Emperor of Herentals' after the Belgian city where he lived, Van Looy delivered newspapers on his bicycle from the age of 12, turned professional at 20 and went on to chalk up 371 pro victories.&nbsp;

He was a specialist in the one-day classics in his heyday in the 1950s and '60s, becoming the first cyclist, before Merckx and Roger De Vlaeminck, to win at least once all five of cycling's monuments - Milan-San Remo, the Tour of Flanders, Paris-Roubaix, Liege-Bastogne-Liege and the Tour of Lombardy.&nbsp;

He was the only rider to have won all the classics of his era, 16 in total including eight monuments, something that Merckx, who never won Paris-Tours, was unable to do.&nbsp; "Rik was an immense champion, an absolute icon with an incredible record of achievements," said Merckx, who was Van Looy's team-mate for one season in 1965, in a statement.&nbsp; "Rik was a super champion who was almost unbeatable in the classics. I'm happy to have been able to race against him."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba/news-giannis-antetokounmpo-stars-as-milwaukee-bucks-beat-oklahoma-city-thunder-to-win-nba-cup-784903">Giannis Antetokounmpo stars as Milwaukee Bucks beat Oklahoma City Thunder to win NBA Cup</a>

The 79-year-old revealed that Van Looy had contacted him 10 days ago to wish him well after Merckx had fallen from his bike, necessitating a hip replacement.&nbsp; "Even though he was ill, he took the trouble to call me when I was in hospital after my crash," said Merckx. "It wasn't until last month that his condition deteriorated rapidly. A few days ago, I gave him some words of encouragement myself."

Aside from his one-day success Van Looy claimed numerous stages on all the three big Tours in France, Italy and Spain and won the world road race title in 1960 and 1961.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Cycling legend Rik Van Looy, renowned for his prowess in the one-day classics, has died at the age of 90, Belgian media reported on Wednesday. Van Looy was rated as the greatest cycling champion Belgium had produced until the arrival of five-time Tour de France winner Eddy Merckx.

Cycling legend Rik Van Looy, renowned for his prowess in the one-day classics, has died at the age of 90, Belgian media reported on Wednesday. Van Looy was rated as the greatest cycling champion Belgium had produced until the arrival of five-time Tour de France winner Eddy Merckx. Known as the 'Emperor of Herentals' after the Belgian city where he lived, Van Looy delivered newspapers on his bicycle from the age of 12, turned professional at 20 and went on to chalk up 371 pro victories. He was a specialist in the one-day classics in his heyday in the 1950s and '60s, becoming the first cyclist, before Merckx and Roger De Vlaeminck, to win at least once all five of cycling's monuments - Milan-San Remo, the Tour of Flanders, Paris-Roubaix, Liege-Bastogne-Liege and the Tour of Lombardy. He was the only rider to have won all the classics of his era, 16 in total including eight monuments, something that Merckx, who never won Paris-Tours, was unable to do. "Rik was an immense champion, an absolute icon with an incredible record of achievements," said Merckx, who was Van Looy's team-mate for one season in 1965, in a statement. "Rik was a super champion who was almost unbeatable in the classics. I'm happy to have been able to race against him." Also read: Giannis Antetokounmpo stars as Milwaukee Bucks beat Oklahoma City Thunder to win NBA Cup The 79-year-old revealed that Van Looy had contacted him 10 days ago to wish him well after Merckx had fallen from his bike, necessitating a hip replacement. "Even though he was ill, he took the trouble to call me when I was in hospital after my crash," said Merckx. "It wasn't until last month that his condition deteriorated rapidly. A few days ago, I gave him some words of encouragement myself." Aside from his one-day success Van Looy claimed numerous stages on all the three big Tours in France, Italy and Spain and won the world road race title in 1960 and 1961. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Belgian cycling legend Rik Van Looy passes away at 90

R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon after the third Test between India and Australia&nbsp;at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw on Wednesday (Dec 18). After bad light&nbsp;and rain played spoilsport in the Brisbane Test, Ashwin made the headlines for stepping aside from international cricket. He ends with 765 scalps—second-most by an Indian in internationals—and was hailed by many former cricketers for his contribution to Indian cricket. Sunil Gavaskar also lauded 'one heck of a cricketer' Ashwin but was critical of the timing of his call.

<h2>'Similarly, when MS Dhoni retired&nbsp;in 2014-15 series, it leaves you one short'</h2>

Speaking to the broadcasters, Gavaskar said, "He could have said, 'Listen, after the end of the series, I won't be available for selection for India'. What it does is that, similarly, when MS Dhoni retired at the end of the 3rd Test of 2014-15 series, it leaves you one short. The selection committee has picked so many players for a tour with a purpose. If there are any injuries, they can select from the reserve players to have in the team. So, Sydney is somewhere where there is a lot of support on offer for spinners. So India could have played with 2 spinners. You never know. He could have been there for sure. I don't know what the pitch in Melbourne will be like."<iframe allow="private-state-token-redemption;attribution-reporting" aria-label="Advertisement" data-google-container-id="7" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" scrolling="no" tabindex="0" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>

"Normally, you tend to look at the end of the series. That's it. In the middle, it is not usual.&nbsp; Maybe Washington Sundar is ahead of him. Rohit said he is flying out tomorrow. So that's the end of Ashwin as an international cricketer. He has been one heck of a cricketer," Gavaskar further opined.

Ashwin only featured in the second Test, in Adelaide, in the ongoing BGT edition. Washington Sundar has been preferred over him in the recent past. Thus, it might have played a part in Ashwin's retirement call.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/youll-always-be-remembered-as-legend-of-indian-cricket-emotional-kohli-lauds-ashwin-after-his-retirement-784896">You'll always be remembered as legend of Indian cricket: Emotional Kohli lauds Ashwin after his retirement</a>

Indian captain Rohit Sharma, however, backed Ashwin's call. In the post-match presser, he said, "I heard R Ashwin’s retirement when I came to Perth. I was not there for the first few days of the Test. This was in his mind since then. There are obviously a lot of things that went behind it. Ashwin, when he is in position, will be able to answer that. He understands the kind of combinations we are thinking. When we came here as well, we were not sure which spinner was going to play. We just wanted to assess and see what kind of conditions we get in front of us. But yeah, when I arrived in Perth, we had a chat and somehow convinced him to stay for the pink-ball Test match. It happened so that he felt, 'If I am not needed right now in the series, then I am better off saying goodbye to the game'."

<iframe allow="private-state-token-redemption;attribution-reporting" aria-label="Advertisement" data-google-container-id="7" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" scrolling="no" tabindex="0" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>"Keeping Ashwin in mind, if this is what he thinks, we should allow him to think that way. We should all standby his call. That is what I am thinking right now, and that's the same mindset of Gautam Gambhir as well. It's important a player like him who has had great moments with the team is allowed to make such a call," Rohit added.

Ashwin signs off with&nbsp;537, 156, and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is&nbsp;respectively. He played 106 Tests, 116 ODIs, and 72 T20Is for India&nbsp;from 2010 to 2024&nbsp;and was part of the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy wins. The 38-year-old ends as India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests and overall (765).

R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon after the third Test between India and Australia at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw on Wednesday (Dec 18).

R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon after the third Test between India and Australia at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw on Wednesday (Dec 18). After bad light and rain played spoilsport in the Brisbane Test, Ashwin made the headlines for stepping aside from international cricket. He ends with 765 scalps—second-most by an Indian in internationals—and was hailed by many former cricketers for his contribution to Indian cricket. Sunil Gavaskar also lauded 'one heck of a cricketer' Ashwin but was critical of the timing of his call. 'Similarly, when MS Dhoni retired in 2014-15 series, it leaves you one short' Speaking to the broadcasters, Gavaskar said, "He could have said, 'Listen, after the end of the series, I won't be available for selection for India'. What it does is that, similarly, when MS Dhoni retired at the end of the 3rd Test of 2014-15 series, it leaves you one short. The selection committee has picked so many players for a tour with a purpose. If there are any injuries, they can select from the reserve players to have in the team. So, Sydney is somewhere where there is a lot of support on offer for spinners. So India could have played with 2 spinners. You never know. He could have been there for sure. I don't know what the pitch in Melbourne will be like." "Normally, you tend to look at the end of the series. That's it. In the middle, it is not usual. Maybe Washington Sundar is ahead of him. Rohit said he is flying out tomorrow. So that's the end of Ashwin as an international cricketer. He has been one heck of a cricketer," Gavaskar further opined. Ashwin only featured in the second Test, in Adelaide, in the ongoing BGT edition. Washington Sundar has been preferred over him in the recent past. Thus, it might have played a part in Ashwin's retirement call. Also read: You'll always be remembered as legend of Indian cricket: Emotional Kohli lauds Ashwin after his retirement Indian captain Rohit Sharma, however, backed Ashwin's call. In the post-match presser, he said, "I heard R Ashwin’s retirement when I came to Perth. I was not there for the first few days of the Test. This was in his mind since then. There are obviously a lot of things that went behind it. Ashwin, when he is in position, will be able to answer that. He understands the kind of combinations we are thinking. When we came here as well, we were not sure which spinner was going to play. We just wanted to assess and see what kind of conditions we get in front of us. But yeah, when I arrived in Perth, we had a chat and somehow convinced him to stay for the pink-ball Test match. It happened so that he felt, 'If I am not needed right now in the series, then I am better off saying goodbye to the game'." "Keeping Ashwin in mind, if this is what he thinks, we should allow him to think that way. We should all standby his call. That is what I am thinking right now, and that's the same mindset of Gautam Gambhir as well. It's important a player like him who has had great moments with the team is allowed to make such a call," Rohit added. Ashwin signs off with 537, 156, and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is respectively. He played 106 Tests, 116 ODIs, and 72 T20Is for India from 2010 to 2024 and was part of the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy wins. The 38-year-old ends as India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests and overall (765).

He could have said, 'I am....': Sunil Gavaskar critical of R Ashwin's sudden international retirement

R Ashwin shocked the cricketing fraternity, on Wednesday (Dec 18), after announcing his international retirement soon after the India-Australia Gabba Test ended in a draw. After bad light and rain continued to interrupt the Gabba Test, in Brisbane, both sides settled for a draw as the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) is interestingly poised at 1-1. Soon after, Ashwin shared the big news, joining skipper Rohit Sharma in the post-match presser.&nbsp;

Speculations regarding Ashwin's retirement started doing the rounds on social media after he was seen having a lengthy chat with Virat Kohli during Day 5's play in the Gabba Test. After India's 275-run chase was interrupted, the two shared an emotional moment with Kohli hugging Ashwin, sparking rumours of the latter's retirement. After the official announcement, Kohli shared his reaction on social media.

<h2>'You will always and always be remembered as a legend of Indian cricket'</h2>

Kohli wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "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."

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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… <a href="https://t.co/QGQ2Z7pAgc">pic.twitter.com/QGQ2Z7pAgc</a>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1869269640154923429?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Kohli and Ashwin share a great equation, with the off-spinner being an instrumental part of India's memorable Test wins during Kohli's captaincy.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-r-ashwin-announces-international-retirement-after-india-vs-australia-gabba-test-ends-in-draw-784878">Ravichandran Ashwin announces international retirement after India vs Australia Gabba Test ends in draw</a>

At the post-match presser, Ashwin said, "This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats of the game at the international level. I do feel there is a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer. I would like to showcase that in club-level cricket. So this will be my last day. I have had a lot of fun. I must say I've created a lot of memories alongside Rohitt and several of my teammates."

Ashwin signs off with 537, 156 and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, respectively. He played 106 Tests, 116 ODIs and 72 T20Is for India, from 2010-2024, and was part of the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy wins. He ends as India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests and overall (765).

In the ongoing BGT edition, Ashwin only played the second Test, in Adelaide, before stepping aside from the highest level.

R Ashwin shocked the cricketing fraternity, on Wednesday (Dec 18), after announcing his international retirement soon after the India-Australia Gabba Test ended in a draw.

R Ashwin shocked the cricketing fraternity, on Wednesday (Dec 18), after announcing his international retirement soon after the India-Australia Gabba Test ended in a draw. After bad light and rain continued to interrupt the Gabba Test, in Brisbane, both sides settled for a draw as the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) is interestingly poised at 1-1. Soon after, Ashwin shared the big news, joining skipper Rohit Sharma in the post-match presser. Speculations regarding Ashwin's retirement started doing the rounds on social media after he was seen having a lengthy chat with Virat Kohli during Day 5's play in the Gabba Test. After India's 275-run chase was interrupted, the two shared an emotional moment with Kohli hugging Ashwin, sparking rumours of the latter's retirement. After the official announcement, Kohli shared his reaction on social media. 'You will always and always be remembered as a legend of Indian cricket' Kohli wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "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." 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… pic.twitter.com/QGQ2Z7pAgc — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) December 18, 2024 × Kohli and Ashwin share a great equation, with the off-spinner being an instrumental part of India's memorable Test wins during Kohli's captaincy. Also read: Ravichandran Ashwin announces international retirement after India vs Australia Gabba Test ends in draw At the post-match presser, Ashwin said, "This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats of the game at the international level. I do feel there is a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer. I would like to showcase that in club-level cricket. So this will be my last day. I have had a lot of fun. I must say I've created a lot of memories alongside Rohitt and several of my teammates." Ashwin signs off with 537, 156 and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, respectively. He played 106 Tests, 116 ODIs and 72 T20Is for India, from 2010-2024, and was part of the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy wins. He ends as India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests and overall (765). In the ongoing BGT edition, Ashwin only played the second Test, in Adelaide, before stepping aside from the highest level.

On Wednesday (Dec 18), R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon&nbsp;after the India versus Australia Gabba Test ended in a draw. The 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) edition has already seen lots of drama and action and Ashwin's retirement comes as a huge surprise.

"This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats of the game at the international level. I do feel there is a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer. I would like to showcase that in club-level cricket. So this will be my last day. I have had a lot of fun. I must say I've created a lot of memories alongside Rohit&nbsp;and several of my teammates," Ashwin said at the post-match press conference.

Ashwin has been a legend of the game. In his 14-year-long international career, the 38-year-old wily spinner ends with 537, 156 and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, respectively. He was part of India's victorious campaigns in the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy.&nbsp;In the red-ball format, the veteran steps aside as the seventh-highest wicket-taker overall and second-most among Indians. Only former Indian captain Anil Kumble is ahead of him, with 619 Test scalps. In addition, Ashwin signs off as India's second-highest wicket-taker in internationals with 765 wickets, once again only behind Kumble's tally (953).

Speculations of Ashwin's retirement spread like wildfire just ahead of the final result at The Gabba, Brisbane. He was seen having a lengthy chat with Virat Kohli in the dressing room when India's chase of 275 was halted due to&nbsp;bad light. The two looked emotional as many speculated a retirement on the cards for the spinner. With rain coming back and conditions not looking promising for any further play, both sides settled for a draw before Ashwin joined Rohit in the post-match presser to announce the big news.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-gabba-test-ends-in-a-draw-after-rain-plays-spoilsport-on-day-5-784879">BGT 2024/25: Gabba Test ends in a draw after rain plays spoilsport on Day 5</a>

Apart from his bowling, Ashwin also made a mark as a batter, especially in the longer format. He ended with 3,503 runs and six hundreds at an average of&nbsp;25.75. He was instrumental in India's dominant run in home Tests, where they were unbeaten for over a decade since 2013. He finished his Test career with as many as 11 Player-of-the-Series awards; most by any player.

Regarding the India-Australia Gabba Test, Rohit-led India opted to bowl first but Australia rode on centuries from Travis Head (152) and Steve Smith (101) to post 445. In reply, India struggled but managed to avoid the follow-on, to end up with 260 on the final day. In reply, Australia declared at 89-7, setting a 275-run target in 54 overs before the bad light and weather had the final say.&nbsp;

Ashwin only played the second Test, in Adelaide, in the ongoing BGT before hanging his boots. The five-match Test series is currently poised at 1-1.

On Wednesday (Dec 18), R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon after the India versus Australia Gabba Test ended in a draw. The 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) edition has already seen lots of drama and action and Ashwin's retirement comes as a huge surprise.

On Wednesday (Dec 18), R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon after the India versus Australia Gabba Test ended in a draw. The 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) edition has already seen lots of drama and action and Ashwin's retirement comes as a huge surprise. "This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats of the game at the international level. I do feel there is a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer. I would like to showcase that in club-level cricket. So this will be my last day. I have had a lot of fun. I must say I've created a lot of memories alongside Rohit and several of my teammates," Ashwin said at the post-match press conference. Ashwin has been a legend of the game. In his 14-year-long international career, the 38-year-old wily spinner ends with 537, 156 and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, respectively. He was part of India's victorious campaigns in the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. In the red-ball format, the veteran steps aside as the seventh-highest wicket-taker overall and second-most among Indians. Only former Indian captain Anil Kumble is ahead of him, with 619 Test scalps. In addition, Ashwin signs off as India's second-highest wicket-taker in internationals with 765 wickets, once again only behind Kumble's tally (953). Speculations of Ashwin's retirement spread like wildfire just ahead of the final result at The Gabba, Brisbane. He was seen having a lengthy chat with Virat Kohli in the dressing room when India's chase of 275 was halted due to bad light. The two looked emotional as many speculated a retirement on the cards for the spinner. With rain coming back and conditions not looking promising for any further play, both sides settled for a draw before Ashwin joined Rohit in the post-match presser to announce the big news. Also read: BGT 2024/25: Gabba Test ends in a draw after rain plays spoilsport on Day 5 Apart from his bowling, Ashwin also made a mark as a batter, especially in the longer format. He ended with 3,503 runs and six hundreds at an average of 25.75. He was instrumental in India's dominant run in home Tests, where they were unbeaten for over a decade since 2013. He finished his Test career with as many as 11 Player-of-the-Series awards; most by any player. Regarding the India-Australia Gabba Test, Rohit-led India opted to bowl first but Australia rode on centuries from Travis Head (152) and Steve Smith (101) to post 445. In reply, India struggled but managed to avoid the follow-on, to end up with 260 on the final day. In reply, Australia declared at 89-7, setting a 275-run target in 54 overs before the bad light and weather had the final say. Ashwin only played the second Test, in Adelaide, in the ongoing BGT before hanging his boots. The five-match Test series is currently poised at 1-1.

Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks silenced the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second half to win the second edition of the NBA Cup with a 97-81 victory in Las Vegas on Tuesday. Two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Antetokounmpo delivered a triple-double of 26 points, 19 rebounds and 10 assists along with two steals and three blocked shots for the Bucks, who drilled 17 three-pointers to complete an unbeaten run and follow in the footsteps of the Los Angeles Lakers as in-season tournament champions.

Damian Lillard scored 23 points for the Bucks, who held the potentially explosive Thunder offense to 31 points in the second half. "That's who we are," Antetokounmpo said of the Bucks' second-half dominance, which saw them push a one-point lead at halftime to as many as 20.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 21 points, but he connected on just eight of his 24 shots from the field, two of nine from three-point range. The triumph was a vindication for the Bucks, who were stung by the Indiana Pacers in last year's Cup semi-finals. They were the only team from last season's semis to make it back to the final four in Vegas, beating the Orlando Magic in the quarter-finals and dispatching Atlanta in the semis.

Their Cup success has been part of a massive turnaround after a dismal 2-8 start to the season. They have now won 13 of their last 16 games, and Antetokounmpo, who led the Bucks to the 2021 NBA title, indicated he considered it only a stepping stone.

"It's great for our team," said Antetokounmpo, who was named MVP of the tournament. "The last 15 games we've played, we've competed. We've played team basketball. "I'm so proud of this group," he added. "Coming out of halftime we know we have 24 minutes to go, we came out in the third quarter, we set the tone. We played great team basketball."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/copa-italia-teun-koopmeiners-stunner-sends-juventus-into-quarters-784827">Copa Italia: Teun Koopmeiners stunner sends Juventus into quarters</a>

- 'Not done' -

The Bucks held the Thunder to just 14 points in the third quarter -- their lowest points total in a period this season. "Most importantly we are competing defensively," Antetokounmpo said. "That's who we are. That's who we're going to continue to be -- and the job's not done."

Unlike the rest of the Cup matches, the final does not count toward the regular-season record, nor do the players' performances count in their career stats. But the trophy does come with a financial reward with each player on the winning team set to pocket more than $514,971 -- a significant chunk of money for the younger players and lesser lights on the team.

Thunder players will take home $205,988 apiece for the runner-up finish. But they will head back to Oklahoma City disappointed with one of their worst shooting performances of the season. "We didn't shoot it well tonight," Gilgeous-Alexander said. "It's not really an excuse. There was definitely controllables tonight we could have taken care of and we didn't do so, and that's why the score looked the way it does. "We've shot bad and won games before."

The Western Conference leaders -- who went 3-1 in group play before beating Dallas in the quarter-finals and Houston in the semis -- connected on just 33.7 percent of their shots from the field and made just five of 32 -- 15.6 percent -- from three-point range.

They had emerged from a fast-paced first quarter with a 28-27 lead. The nip-and-tuck continued in the second quarter and the tension was evident when Milwaukee's Andre Jackson Jr and Oklahoma City's Isaiah Hartenstein received matching technicals after a heated exchange.

After a first half that featured nine lead changes the Bucks led 51-50, but Milwaukee opened the third with back-to-back three-pointers from Taurean Prince and Lillard and began to roll.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks silenced the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second half to win the second edition of the NBA Cup with a 97-81 victory in Las Vegas on Tuesday.

Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks silenced the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second half to win the second edition of the NBA Cup with a 97-81 victory in Las Vegas on Tuesday. Two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Antetokounmpo delivered a triple-double of 26 points, 19 rebounds and 10 assists along with two steals and three blocked shots for the Bucks, who drilled 17 three-pointers to complete an unbeaten run and follow in the footsteps of the Los Angeles Lakers as in-season tournament champions. Damian Lillard scored 23 points for the Bucks, who held the potentially explosive Thunder offense to 31 points in the second half. "That's who we are," Antetokounmpo said of the Bucks' second-half dominance, which saw them push a one-point lead at halftime to as many as 20. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 21 points, but he connected on just eight of his 24 shots from the field, two of nine from three-point range. The triumph was a vindication for the Bucks, who were stung by the Indiana Pacers in last year's Cup semi-finals. They were the only team from last season's semis to make it back to the final four in Vegas, beating the Orlando Magic in the quarter-finals and dispatching Atlanta in the semis. Their Cup success has been part of a massive turnaround after a dismal 2-8 start to the season. They have now won 13 of their last 16 games, and Antetokounmpo, who led the Bucks to the 2021 NBA title, indicated he considered it only a stepping stone. "It's great for our team," said Antetokounmpo, who was named MVP of the tournament. "The last 15 games we've played, we've competed. We've played team basketball. "I'm so proud of this group," he added. "Coming out of halftime we know we have 24 minutes to go, we came out in the third quarter, we set the tone. We played great team basketball." Also read: Copa Italia: Teun Koopmeiners stunner sends Juventus into quarters - 'Not done' - The Bucks held the Thunder to just 14 points in the third quarter -- their lowest points total in a period this season. "Most importantly we are competing defensively," Antetokounmpo said. "That's who we are. That's who we're going to continue to be -- and the job's not done." Unlike the rest of the Cup matches, the final does not count toward the regular-season record, nor do the players' performances count in their career stats. But the trophy does come with a financial reward with each player on the winning team set to pocket more than $514,971 -- a significant chunk of money for the younger players and lesser lights on the team. Thunder players will take home $205,988 apiece for the runner-up finish. But they will head back to Oklahoma City disappointed with one of their worst shooting performances of the season. "We didn't shoot it well tonight," Gilgeous-Alexander said. "It's not really an excuse. There was definitely controllables tonight we could have taken care of and we didn't do so, and that's why the score looked the way it does. "We've shot bad and won games before." The Western Conference leaders -- who went 3-1 in group play before beating Dallas in the quarter-finals and Houston in the semis -- connected on just 33.7 percent of their shots from the field and made just five of 32 -- 15.6 percent -- from three-point range. They had emerged from a fast-paced first quarter with a 28-27 lead. The nip-and-tuck continued in the second quarter and the tension was evident when Milwaukee's Andre Jackson Jr and Oklahoma City's Isaiah Hartenstein received matching technicals after a heated exchange. After a first half that featured nine lead changes the Bucks led 51-50, but Milwaukee opened the third with back-to-back three-pointers from Taurean Prince and Lillard and began to roll. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Giannis Antetokounmpo stars as Milwaukee Bucks beat Oklahoma City Thunder to win NBA Cup

Asian Bowlers With Most Innings As Top Wicket-Taker In SENA Tests

5-fers: 11

5-fers: 10

5-fers: 8

5-fers: 7

Asian Bowlers With Most Innings As Top Wicket-Taker In SENA Tests Akram Murali Imran Bumrah Kapil

Most 50+ Scores For India Vs Australia (Across Formats)

50+ Scores: 51 | Innings: 114

50+ Scores: 44 | Innings: 118

50+ Scores: 25 | Innings: 90

50+ Scores: 24 | Innings: 73

50+ Scores: 23 | Innings: 96

Most 50+ Scores For India Vs Australia Tendulkar Kohli Rohit Dravid Laxman

Most Test 6s Without A 100

6s: 98

6s: 47

6s: 37

6s: 36

Most Test 6s Without A 100 Southee Steyn Holding Starc Warne Wagner

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