Ravichandran Ashwin, now a former India spinner, responded to Virat Kohli’s heartfelt retirement tribute with a nostalgic ode to their memorable partnership in Melbourne against Pakistan. Ashwin’s retirement on December 19 prompted Kohli to share an emotional post, calling Ashwin a “legend of Indian cricket” and celebrating his match-winning contributions in Test cricket.
Replying to Kohli on X, Ashwin expressed gratitude for the tribute and revisited their iconic batting stand in India’s 2022 T20 World Cup victory over Pakistan, a moment etched in cricketing history.
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“I’ve played with you for 14 years and when you told me today you’re retiring, it made me a bit emotional and the flashbacks of all those years playing together came to me. I’ve enjoyed every bit of the journey with you ash, your skill and match winning contributions to Indian cricket are second to none, and you will always and always be remembered as a legend of Indian cricket. Wish you nothing but the best in your life with your family and everything else that it unfolds for you. With massive respect and lots of love to you and your close ones. Thanks for everything buddy,” Kohli said in his tribute to Ashwin on X.
“Thanks buddy! Like I told you, I will be walking out with you to bat at the MCG,” Ashiwn responded.
Kohli-Ashwin’s MCG 2022 Memories
Ashwin joined Kohli at the crease during the final two balls of India’s thrilling 160-run chase against Pakistan at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) during India’s 2022 T20 World Cup clash. India were left with a daunting 48-run chase in the last three overs of the match with pressure mostly on Virat Kohli’s shoulders. With Hardik Pandya as his partner, Kohli unleashed a masterclass in composure and skill, reducing the requirement to 28 runs from 8 balls.
The defining moment came when Kohli struck two stunning sixes off Haris Rauf’s last two deliveries, reigniting India’s hopes. The equation boiled down to 16 off the final over, bowled by Mohammad Nawaz. Kohli continued his brilliance, running hard between the wickets and launching a six despite Pandya’s dismissal on the first ball.
Drama peaked when a no-ball and subsequent free-hit brought India within two runs of victory with two balls to spare. It was Ashwin who showcased nerves of steel, calmly lifting the final delivery over the infield to seal a famous win, with Kohli unbeaten on 82 in what many called one of his greatest innings.
The Emotional Connection
Before Ashwin’s official announcement, an emotional embrace between Kohli and Ashwin in the Brisbane dugout had sparked speculation about the spinner’s retirement. Kohli’s tribute revealed that Ashwin had informed him of his decision, moving the batter deeply.
The camaraderie between Ashwin and Kohli dates back to 2011, when they were teammates in India’s ODI World Cup-winning squad. Their partnership over the years, punctuated by moments like the MCG stand, exemplifies mutual respect and shared triumphs.
Ashwin’s response encapsulated not just his gratitude but also a celebration of an unforgettable chapter in Indian cricket, marked by teamwork and unyielding spirit.
