Chennai, December 21 – Ravichandran Ashwin’s sudden retirement from international cricket left fans and the cricketing world stunned. Following his announcement after the third Test against Australia in Brisbane, his wife Prithi Narayanan shared a heartfelt post on Instagram, reflecting on their journey together and urging him to embrace life beyond cricket.
‘A Fan’s Love Letter’
Prithi’s post, titled "A Fan’s Love Letter", encapsulated her admiration and pride for Ashwin’s illustrious career, which saw him take 537 Test wickets since his debut against the West Indies in 2011.
“From not knowing how to pack a kit bag together to following you around the world, cheering for you, watching you, and learning from you—it has been an absolute joy,” Prithi wrote. “You introduced me to a world that allowed me to love a game closely, a privilege I hold dearly.”
Reflections on Dedication and Perseverance
Prithi highlighted the passion, discipline, and effort Ashwin put into his craft. She noted that reaching greatness required immense dedication, often beyond what others deemed sufficient.
“You had to do it all and more to remain relevant as R. Ashwin in the system. It wasn’t just about awards, incredible statistics, or Player of the Match trophies; it was about your relentless drive to improve.”
A Message of Reassurance
Prithi expressed her pride in Ashwin’s accomplishments and offered words of encouragement as he transitions into a new phase of life. “As you bid farewell to your international career, know that all is well. It’s time to let go of the weight of being Ashwin and embrace life on your own terms.”
She urged him to enjoy the simple joys of life—spending time with family, indulging in new experiences, and cherishing the freedom to live without the constraints of professional cricket. “Spend time with the kids, share memes, hunt for a new ball, and just do nothing all day.”
Memories of Triumphs and Challenges
Prithi reminisced about the pivotal moments of Ashwin’s 14-year career—victories, personal accolades, and tough losses. She recounted emotional milestones like India’s win at the MCG, the Sydney Test draw, and triumph at the Gabba, as well as quieter, introspective moments spent together after challenging matches.
“When I watched your press conference, memories of the last 13–14 years came rushing back—the big wins, the heartbreaks, and everything in between,” she wrote.
An End of an Era
Ashwin’s retirement marked the conclusion of a distinguished international career. While he will continue playing in domestic leagues like the IPL, his absence from the international stage has left an indelible mark on fans and teammates alike.
Prithi’s tribute serves as a reminder of the sacrifices and resilience behind the success of one of India’s greatest cricketers, offering a deeply personal glimpse into the man beyond the stats and accolades.
