Ravichandran Ashwin displayed his lighter side in a heartwarming and fun-filled video shared by the BCCI on social media after he retired from international cricket on Wednesday (December 18).
In the viral clip, the former Indian off-spinner, who is known for his fiery competitiveness on the field, revealed his playful persona as he stepped into a “new role” as the bowling coach for the Indian cricket team’s support staff on the Australia tour.
Ravichandran Ashwin takes on bowling coach role for India’s support staff in heartwarming video
It was an indoor training session where Ravichandran Ashwin invited all the members of the backroom staff to showcase their bowling skills. Ashwin, taking charge as the bowling coach with humor and energy, called the Indian support staff to the nets one by one, encouraging them to show their talent but also playfully criticizing their techniques as well.
The support staff enthusiastically joined him, delivering their best efforts amid the laughter. Meanwhile, Indian spin all-rounder Washington Sundar and pacer Prasidh Krishna were also spotted watching the light-hearted competition among the support staff of the Indian cricket team, as they were enjoying the cheerful atmosphere from the bench.
On the other hand, Ravichandran Ashwin didn’t just stop at joking around, but at the same time, the spin icon also offered some bowling tips to them. Well, this video has highlighted the strong bond and mutual respect within the Indian camp, with Ashwin’s genuine appreciation for the behind-the-scenes heroes and his bond with the support staff shining through.
‘The countless battles on the field are memorable’
During the video, the Indian support staff looked thrilled to be part of the unique experience, and the entire session turned into a joyful celebration of teamwork and friendship. Well, Ashwin’s ability to connect with both players and support staff remains one of his impressive qualities.
The BCCI captioned the video: “The countless battles on the field are memorable. But it’s also moments like these that Ashwin will reminisce about from his international career.”
The countless battles on the field are memorable ❤️
But it’s also moments like these that Ashwin will reminisce from his international career 😃👌
Check out @ashwinravi99 supporting his beloved support staff 🫶#TeamIndia | #ThankYouAshwin pic.twitter.com/OepvPpbMSc
— BCCI (@BCCI) December 19, 2024
Notably, Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to a remarkable 14-year career, after the Gabba Test ended in a draw between India and Australia. The 38-year-old off-spinner made his final appearance for India in the Adelaide Test against Australia.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s iconic career ends with 765 wickets and 2 ICC titles
Over his illustrious journey, Ashwin claimed a record 765 wickets across all formats. He was an integral part of India’s victorious campaigns in the 2011 ODI World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy. He is leaving behind a legacy of excellence and unforgettable moments on the field.
Ashwin, alongside Ravindra Jadeja, created one of the deadliest bowling partnerships in Test history for India. The off-spinner also holds a shared world record for the most Player of the Series awards, alongside Muttiah Muralitharan—11. Additionally, Ashwin and Shane Warne share the record for the second-most five-wicket hauls in Test cricket.
With 537 scalps in 106 Tests, Ashwin finished his career as the second-highest wicket-taker for India and the seventh overall in the shortest format of the game. However, he will be seen in action in domestic cricket, playing for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL.