Ashwin's Unexpected Retirement Shockwaves through Cricket

Sunil Gavaskar criticizes R Ashwin's surprise retirement announcement, stressing its impact on the Indian cricket team during the ongoing series against Australia. Ashwin's decision mirrors MS Dhoni's past mid-series exit, potentially affecting strategies for the upcoming Tests in Sydney and Melbourne.

In a move that has sent ripples through the cricketing community, legendary off-spinner R Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket, effective immediately. The decision comes in the midst of an intense series against Australia, which is currently tied at 1-1.

Cricket icon Sunil Gavaskar voiced his displeasure over the timing, drawing parallels to MS Dhoni's mid-series retirement in 2014-15. Gavaskar suggested Ashwin could have been pivotal in the series' remaining Tests, particularly in spinner-friendly Sydney.

Despite being overlooked for the series opener, Ashwin participated in the second Test but failed to impress. With Washington Sundar potentially positioning to fill Ashwin's void, his retirement marks the end of a significant era in cricket.

(With inputs from agencies.)