India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin’s announcement of retirement has shocked every cricket fan across the world. Still one of the best spinners in the game, Ashwin had his international career in the middle of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. There was sadness in the Indian camp at the end of the Brisbane Test and Ashwin decided to hang up his boots. Even his teammates in the Indian locker room were taken aback by the announcement. As Ashwin prepares for another chapter of his career, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a heartfelt letter to the iconic spinner, who has emerged as the country’s biggest winner in the longest format of the game.
In his letter, Prime Minister Modi wrote that Ashwin’s retirement announcement felt like a ‘carrom ball’. From emerging as one of India’s highest wicket-takers in international cricket to his personal sacrifices, PM Modi thanked the off-spinner from Tamil Nadu for all he has done for the game and the country.
Below is the full text of Prime Minister Modi’s letter to R Ashwin.
I hope this letter finds you in the best of health and spirits.
The announcement of his retirement from international cricket took fans in India and around the world by surprise. When everyone was expecting more off-breaks, you threw a carom ball that bowled everyone over. But we all understand that this must have been a difficult decision for you as well. Especially after your outstanding career playing for India.
Congratulations on a career full of great, hard working, and valuing your team above all else.
As we bid farewell to international cricket, we will miss the number 99 jersey. Cricket lovers will miss the excitement they felt when they came to the crease to bowl. There was always the feeling that one was weaving a web around one’s opponent that could trap the victim at any time. You had an incredible ability to overwhelm batsmen with old-fashioned off-spin as well as innovative off-spin, depending on the situation.
Each of the 765 international wickets taken across all formats was special. Holding the record for winning the most player of the series awards in a Test match shows the impact you have had on the team’s success in Tests over the years.
As a young prospect, you took five wickets on your Test debut and were part of the 2011 ODI World Cup winning team. In 2013, you became a key member of the team. Since then, he has played an important role as a senior member of the team, winning several times in all formats of games. As the ICC Cricketer of the Year, you have also earned international acclaim and universal respect.
You have showcased your all-round skills by scoring 100 runs and taking five wickets in a match on several occasions. Those of you with the bat in your hands have given our country many memories, including the courageous game-winning innings in Sydney in 2021.
Often people remember great shots they played. But you have the unique distinction of being remembered for both your shots and your leave in the legendary game of WT20 in 2022. Your winning shot drew loud cheers. The way he put the ball first and allowed it to go wide showed a presence of mind.
Even in times of adversity, your sincerity and dedication came first. We all remember how your mother came back to contribute to the team even when she was hospitalized, and the time you continued to play against South Africa despite not being able to contact your family during the floods in Chennai.
As you observe your career, your flexibility and adaptability stand out. The way they adapted their approach to different game formats was an asset to the team. I wonder if your training as an engineer contributed to the meticulous, detail-oriented approach you are known for. Many analysts and colleagues have praised your sharp cricketing mind. I am confident that such knowledge will benefit future generations of young people.
The wit and warmth you bring to conversations are appreciated by your fans. Please continue posting ‘Kutti Stories’ on cricket, sports and life in general.
As an ambassador for the game on and off the field, you have made your country and your family proud. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate your parents, your wife Prithi and your daughters. I am confident that their sacrifices and support have played a crucial role in my growth as a cricketer and person. I wish you could spend more time with them. It’s something you’ve been looking forward to for years.
We hope you find a way to continue contributing to the game you love so much.
Once again, we offer our sincere congratulations on your illustrious career and best wishes for the future.
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