superace88 Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Starc Sings Massive Praises For Just-retired R Ashwin

India all-rounder Ravichandran AshwinPhoto: AP India all-rounder Ravichandran AshwinPhoto: AP

Australia pace bowler Mitchell Starc has paid a glorious tribute to the just-retired India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwinsuperace88, saying he has been "a bit of a thorn" for their side in some of the memorable contests Down Under. (Full Coverage | More Cricket News)

Ashwin, India's premier off-spinner, on Wednesday surprised the cricketing world by announcing his retirement in the middle of the Test series against Australia.

Chen Benhai gave the hosts the lead with a fine field goal in the first quarter following an enterprising team move. But the highlight of the match was Chao Jieming's sensational solo effort in the second quarter.

Ahmad Nadeem, standing right on the left edge of the goal mouth, found the ball from inside the D just in the sixth minute of the opening whistle. He was in the perfect position to execute a slight deflection into the Indian goal and that is what he did to push Pakistan ahead in the match.

He retired from the game as the second-highest wicket-taker for India in Tests with 537 scalps from 106 matches, placing him only behind the legendary Anil Kumble (619 wickets).

ng slot

Ashwin played 23 Tests against Australia from 2011 to 2024, taking 115 scalps, including a 10-wicket and seven five-wicket hauls. He also played a big in India's stunning series win in 2020-21.

"He (Ashwin) has always been a bit of a thorn in our side over in India and played a part in series here in Australia. It's been a fantastic career and I'm sure it will be celebrated that way," Starc told SEN Radio after the third Test here ended in a draw.

"His numbers speak for themselves. He's been an incredible bowler for India for a long time, over 500 wickets."

Ashwin enjoyed a great rapport with Australian off-spinner Nathan Lyon, both of whom having 500-plus wickets.

"He (Ashwin) has got a close working relationship with Nathan (Lyon) and that mutual respect between teams and for someone of his calibre - congratulations on his career. It's been a fantastic career and I'm sure it will be celebrated that waysuperace88," added Starc.