!['No one is bigger than the game of cricket' - Manoj Tiwary criticises Jasprit Bumrah for his 'pick and choose' approach [Exclusive]](https://g-mob.glance-cdn.com/public/fc/images/f-a270977e8f-ad3bea04-f850-5946-b8cb-1bfa3118297b-b.webp)
Former England spinner Monty Panesar has expressed his surprise at Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL), referring to the Indian off-spinner as a “scientist of spin bowling”
who revolutionised the art of variations in T20 cricket.
Ashwin, one of India’s most accomplished modern-day cricketers, announced his decision to retire from the IPL, concluding a distinguished career that started with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in 2009. Known for his cunning, cricketing intelligence, and adaptability across formats, the 38-year-old leaves behind a legacy that transcends mere statistics.
What Monty Panesar Said About Ashwin?
Panesar, a notable spinner for England in the 2000s, commended Ashwin’s progression in the league. “He first made his mark in the IPL as a T20 bowler, excelling especially in the powerplay, and gradually developed into a fantastic all-round cricketer and bowler across all formats,” Panesar was quoted as saying to IANS on Wednesday.
The former left-arm spinner emphasised how Ashwin consistently pushed boundaries, transforming challenges into opportunities. “He maximised his learning, constantly developed new variations, and consistently outsmarted batsmen. That’s why he earned the reputation of being a true scientist of spin,” Panesar added.
Ashwin’s tactical acumen made him a dependable asset in the shortest format. From his renowned carrom ball to his later innovations with seam-up deliveries and slower variations, he continually reinvented himself to remain relevant. In the IPL, he played for several franchises, including Chennai Super Kings, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals, playing crucial roles both as a bowler and a leader.
“Special day and hence a special beginning. They say every ending will have a new start. My time as an IPL cricketer comes to a close today, but my time as an explorer of the game around various leagues begins today. Would like to thank all the franchisees for all the wonderful memories and relationships over the years, and most importantly, the @IPL and the @BCCI for what they have given me until now. Look forward to enjoying and making the most of what’s ahead of me,” Ashwin wrote on X.
The off-spinner concluded his IPL career as the league’s fifth-highest wicket-taker with 187 wickets in 221 games at an economy rate of 7.2. He had already retired from international cricket after the Brisbane Test against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in December 2024.
(With inputs from IANS)
