Ravichandran Ashwin’s Retirement Sparks Debate on Jasprit Bumrah’s Status as India’s Greatest Bowler

The retirement of Ravichandran Ashwin has been shocking for the cricketing world, as it came unexpectedly after a stellar career spanning 14 years. The legendary Indian off-spinner, who picked up 537 wickets in 106 Tests, has retired as India’s second-highest wicket-taker in the format after Anil Kumble. Ashwin’s career is marked by his impressive 37 five-wicket hauls, the joint most by any bowler in Test cricket.

Upon hearing the news, Pakistan’s former spinner Saeed Ajmal paid a heartfelt tribute to Ashwin, praising his skill, leadership, and the mutual respect they shared as off-spinners. Ajmal called Ashwin “a great human being”, highlighting their friendly interactions during tense India-Pakistan matches. He said:

Someone with 537 wickets in 106 Tests must be a great bowler, but it is not only the record but the guile that made (Ravichandran) Ashwin a legendary bowler. We had a mutual respect for being the same style bowler. He used to admire me whenever I had success and when he had a good match I admired him. The best thing about Ashwin was that he used to always meet in a joyous mood. That made him a great human being. No matter how tense the India-Pakistan games were, we always had a laugh and shared some precious moments on and off the field.

Despite Ashwin’s retirement from international cricket, he plans to continue his career in the IPL with Chennai Super Kings, having been purchased for Rs. 9.75 crore for IPL 2025. Ashwin’s decision has sparked debates in the cricket community, especially regarding Jasprit Bumrah’s position as India’s greatest bowler.