Ravichandran Ashwin Opens Up on Gautam Gambhir and the Real Reason Behind His Test Retirement

March 18, 2026: Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin spoke about the final stage of his Test career and explained why he decided to retire. He also shared his thoughts on changes happening in the Indian team.

Ashwin said he realised it was time to step away during the Perth Test. “At Perth, I was the senior bowler. Washi played that Test and I realised that my time was up,” he said.

After he retired following the Brisbane Test, some people criticised the team management. This happened especially because Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli also moved away around the same time. Head coach Gautam Gambhir was also questioned, but Ashwin said he does not agree with that criticism.

Ashwin supports Gambhir and team mindset

Ashwin supported Gambhir and said he respects his approach.

“I like Gautam. People may have different opinions, but he always puts the team before individuals,” Ashwin said. “He gives credit to the team, not just one player, and I like that.”

He also said Indian cricket is not dependent on just a few big names.

“There is more to Indian cricket than just a couple of people,” he said.

Talking about his time with Rohit and Kohli, Ashwin said the team always worked together. “The best part about us was that we never blamed each other. We all wanted India to win and make the country proud,” he said.

🚨RAVICHANDRAN ASHWIN’S SHOCKING REVELATION ON TEST RETIREMENT 🗣️

I think at Perth, when we had Jaddu and myself as the lead spinners in the side and Washi played that game in Perth and then the next game again I came in and then I had to again make way, was kind of suggestive… pic.twitter.com/IjuGMiorJ0

— Rohan💫 (@rohann__45) March 17, 2026

India’s transition phase and future concerns

Ashwin said the Indian team is now going through a transition period. He believes batting will not be a big problem because India will continue to produce good batters. However, he is more concerned about bowling.

“Playing spin is a problem, but batting is not a big issue. We will produce batters,” he said. “Bowling is not as strong as batting, and that is the main concern.” he added.

His comments show that Indian cricket is changing, with new players coming in and the team trying to find the right balance.