Ravichandran Ashwin’s tale is one of remarkable determination and a testament to overcoming personal and professional hurdles. Once at a crossroads, contemplating a departure from cricket to pursue academic aspirations, Ravichandran Ashwin’s journey back to the pinnacle of Test cricket encapsulates a story worth telling.
The Darkest Hour: A Champion’s Turmoil
2017 was a year that saw Ravichandran Ashwin, India’s champion off-spinner, grappling with the toughest phase of his illustrious career. Following a disheartening performance in the ICC Champions Trophy final against Pakistan, where his figures read a dismal 0/70, the ace spinner found himself side-lined from the ODI setup. This exclusion came on the heels of a period that saw Ashwin being celebrated as the ICC Cricketer of the Year for 2016, making the sidelining all the more bitter.
Reflecting on this challenging time, Ravichandran Ashwin shared, “I decided to quit cricket. I was asking myself what I would do? And I said whatever I do in life, I would try to achieve excellence and be as good as I can be in that profession.” His thoughts wandered towards pursuing an MBA, eyeing a career potentially in marketing. It was a moment of vulnerability, a stark contrast to the image of the analytical and fiercely competitive cricketer fans had come to admire.
A Conversation That Changed Everything
Amidst the turmoil and the shadows of doubt, a poignant conversation with his father played a pivotal role in reshaping Ashwin’s destiny. Known for his stoic disposition, Ravichandran Ashwin revealed, “My dad and I fight a lot. And he eventually threw a statement, ‘You know what? You are too upright and honest. That’s why you are getting screwed’. He made that statement and left.” This confrontation led to a rare moment of emotional catharsis for Ravichandran Ashwin, unlocking a well of emotions he seldom allowed himself to explore.
It was this moment, coupled with external counseling, that marked the beginning of Ashwin’s resurgence. Far from the darkened rooms and the solitude he once found solace in, Ashwin embarked on a path of self-discovery and mental strengthening that would eventually see him don the Indian jersey once again.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s Resurgence and Redemption: A New Chapter
Fast forward to the eve of the 2023 World Cup, and the narrative had shifted dramatically. Ashwin was recalled to the ODI side, a testament to his undying spirit and relentless pursuit of excellence. His journey from contemplating an exit from the sport to stepping onto the field for India’s tournament opener is nothing short of cinematic.
Recently, Ashwin’s career reached another monumental milestone as he completed his 100th Test match and joined the elite club of bowlers with over 500 Test wickets, a feat achieved by only one other Indian, the legendary Anil Kumble. This achievement not only underscores Ashwin’s prowess on the field but also highlights his mental resilience and ability to triumph over adversity.
Ravichandran Ashwin revealed his dark Phase after getting dropped from white ball squad even tough he was ICC player of the year before.
" My dad and I fight a lot. And he eventually threw a statement “You know what? You are too upright and honest. That’s why you are getting… pic.twitter.com/eQWLNzJXoY
— Sujeet Suman (@sujeetsuman1991) March 18, 2024
Conclusion: The Legacy of Resilience
Ravichandran Ashwin’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit. It’s a narrative that transcends the boundaries of cricket, inspiring individuals across all walks of life to face challenges head-on and to never lose sight of their dreams, no matter the hurdles. As Ashwin continues to weave his legacy, his journey from the depths of despair to the zenith of cricketing excellence will forever serve as a beacon of hope and perseverance.
