Ravichandran Ashwin kept his retirement speech sharp while addressing the media after the end of the Brisbane Test today in the ongoing Border Gavaskar Trophy (BGT).

However, Ashwin expressed it where it mattered most: within the walls of the Indian team dressing room, among his closest colleagues and teammates. In a farewell video posted by BCCI on its social media, the spinning maestro became emotional and gave a moving speech.

“Even though I’m not showing it, it’s really an emotional moment for me. It feels like it’s 2011-12 when I did my first tour of Australia. I saw the transition then, when Rahul Bhai and Sachin Paji left. But everyone’s time comes, and today was mine,” Ashwin said.

The veteran spinner summed up his speech with a promise to always be available on call.

“To all of you, if you need anything, I’m just a call away.”

READ ALSO: Frustration? Former Australia player reveals why R Ashwin announced his retirement mid-series

Ashwin received an Australian jersey signed by Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon

On his final walk back to the Indian dressing room, Ravichandran Ashwin was greeted by Australian captain Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon, who presented him with an autographed Australian jersey as a memento.

After his speech, Ashwin also cut a cake to commemorate his illustrious career.

Overcome with emotion, Ashwin remarked that while his journey as an international cricketer may be over, the ‘cricket nut’ in him will remain eternal.

Ashwin, a veteran of 104 Test matches, shared that he plans to continue following his teammates’ performances during the remaining two BGT Tests in Melbourne and Sydney.

Ravichandran Ashwin retires as one of the sport’s greats, with 765 international wickets to his name, of which 537 came in 106 Tests. Ashwin is India’s second highest wicket-taker in Tests, with 486 dismissals, only behind the legendary Anil Kumble (619). He also made important contributions with the bat, amassing 3,505 runs, including six centuries.

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