All-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket after the conclusion of the Brisbane Test, which ended in a draw.
An emotional Ashwin reflected on his illustrious career as he brought the curtain down.
"Hello everyone,"
"I really didn't want to make this about myself. Honestly, I think it would have been better if (Jasprit) Bumrah or Akash (Deep) were here, but Rohit is unfortunate to have me alongside him.
"I don't want to take too much of your time, but this will be my last day as an Indian cricketer at the international level. I do feel there's a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer, but I would like to showcase that at the club level. I've had a lot of fun, and I've created a lot of memories.
"I must say I've shared some incredible moments alongside Rohit and several other teammates, even though I've lost some of them over the years.
"We are the last of the OGs (old generation) left in the dressing room, and today marks the end of my journey at this level.
"There are a lot of people to thank, and I would be failing in my duty if I didn't mention the BCCI, my fellow teammates, and a few key names.
"All the coaches who've been part of this journey, and most importantly Rohit, Virat (Kohli), Ajinkya (Rahane), and (Cheteshwar) Pujara — who've taken those splendid catches around the bat to give me the wickets I've managed over the years.
"A big thank you also to the Australian cricket team, who've been fierce competitors. I've enjoyed playing against them.
"This is already getting long, so I won't take any questions. It's truly a very emotional moment.
"I don't think I'm in a position to answer questions properly, so please pardon me.
"Once again, thank you to all the journalists for writing good things — and, of course, the occasional nasty things. That's a relationship I think we'll maintain forever. I hope future cricketers receive the same amount of love.
"Thank you all, and see you soon.
"As a cricketer, this is where I stop, but I may remain involved with the game because it has given me everything.
"Thank you."
