India's all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin recently shared a deeply personal reflection on his cricketing journey, revealing a self-promise he made early in his career after India’s loss to England in the 2012 home series. In a special video tribute by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Ashwin opened up about his vow to never let India lose another home series following that defeat, which marked the team's first home series loss since 2004.
Reflecting on that pivotal moment in 2012, Ashwin said, "I made myself a promise... we're not going to lose another one ever." Despite the challenges, the promise fueled a remarkable period of success for India, with Ashwin playing a key role in the team’s dominance at home. Under his contribution, India went on to set a world record, winning 18 consecutive home series.
Ashwin’s impact in this period is undeniable. Over 53 home Tests, he claimed 320 wickets at an average of 20.04, including 24 five-wicket hauls and five ten-wicket hauls. His batting also added valuable runs, as he scored 1505 runs in 64 innings, including three centuries and six fifties.
Despite his legendary career, Ashwin expressed gratitude and surprise at the success he achieved, particularly considering his beginnings. "If somebody had told me in 2011 that I would be getting so many wickets... I wouldn't have believed them," he admitted. His journey, he said, has been filled with "a deep sense of gratitude for everyone that supported me, everyone that's challenged me."
Ashwin's career, however, ended on a bittersweet note. Despite his immense contributions, India lost another home series in November 2024 when they were whitewashed by New Zealand 0-3, breaking their long unbeaten streak. His final Test appearance came against Australia in Adelaide, where he took figures of 1/53 and contributed 22 and 7 with the bat.
Ashwin leaves behind an incredible legacy, with accolades including 11 Player of the Series awards, tied for the most in Test history with Muttiah Muralidaran, and 10 Player of the Match awards. His retirement marks the end of a significant chapter in India's cricket history, with Ashwin’s promise and perseverance shaping the team's incredible home record.
