Veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has opened up about his mental health issues. He revealed that since 2019 he was in a dark space and also sought help for his mental health.
During a recent interaction with PTI, Ravichandran Ashwin revealed that for four-five years he struggled a lot with his mental health. He added that during that phase he realized that he has to be prepared for every situation. He elaborated:
“I’m not being diplomatic, but for four or five years (since 2019), I found myself in a very dark time in my life and also asked for help for my mental health. In the dark space, I realized that I have to be prepared for any eventuality.”
Since the last few years, many cricketers have opened up about their mental health issues. English cricketer Ben Stokes, Virat Kohli and many others spoke about the dark phase of him. However, now they have overcome that phase and are going strong.
Ravichandran Ashwin now seems to be in a good place as he was recently seen enjoying his game. He was part of the Indian squad in the recently concluded ICC World Cup 2023. The player played one game but was very happy with the team’s success.
I have been preparing for life after cricket for five years – Ravichandran Ashwin
Ravichandran Ashwin spoke more about his future. He revealed that he is looking for life after cricket. While talking about his retirement, he said that the day he feels irritated by bowling or batting, he will end his career. He explained:
“I have been preparing for life after cricket for five years. But I kept working hard on my cricket; To contribute with the bat I went to the United States and played baseball. The day I lose this motivation, I feel irritated about waking up in the morning to bowl or bat, I know it’s over. “Then I will resign immediately, thank everyone and move on to the next chapter of my life.”
Ravichandran Ashwin has been named in the Indian squad for the Test series against South Africa. He is likely to play a crucial role for the team in the series.