Three months of IPL started feeling a bit too long: R Ashwin
The Indian Premier League (IPL) is one of the most popular and lucrative T20 leagues in the world, attracting some of the best cricketers from around the globe. The tournament’s demanding schedule, which typically runs for three months, is a far cry from the traditional Tests and ODIs that many players are used to. For Ravichandran Ashwin, one of the most successful off-spinners in the world, the grueling schedule of the IPL had begun to take its toll. In a shocking move, Ashwin announced his retirement from the IPL, citing the physically demanding nature of the tournament.
Ashwin, who has been a key player for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) since the inception of the IPL, revealed that the three-month schedule had started feeling a bit too long for him. In an exclusive interview, Ashwin opened up about the reasons behind his decision to step away from the tournament. “I thought about playing the IPL next year. But three months of IPL started feeling a bit too long,” he said.
The IPL’s grueling schedule is well-documented. The tournament typically runs from late March to late May, with each team playing 14 matches in the league stage and then another four matches in the playoffs. This means that players have to play almost daily, with limited time to rest and recover between matches. Ashwin, who has been a regular member of the Indian Test team, has always spoken about the importance of rest and recovery in his cricketing career.
Ashwin’s decision to retire from the IPL is a significant one, given his impressive record in the tournament. In 124 matches, he has taken 126 wickets at an economy rate of 7.27. He has also been a valuable member of the CSK squad, helping the team win three titles. However, Ashwin has always prioritized his Test career, and his decision to retire from the IPL is seen as a sign of his commitment to his red-ball game.
The IPL’s demanding schedule is not the only reason for Ashwin’s retirement. The tournament’s intense pressure and scrutiny can also take a toll on players. Ashwin has always been a calm and composed player, but even he has not been immune to the pressure of performing in the IPL. In recent years, he has struggled to maintain his form in the tournament, and his decision to retire may have been influenced by his desire to focus on his Test career.
Ashwin’s retirement from the IPL is a significant loss for the tournament, but it also highlights the importance of player welfare. The IPL’s grueling schedule and intense pressure can take a toll on players, and Ashwin’s decision to prioritize his Test career is a reminder that players’ well-being should be a top priority.
In conclusion, Ashwin’s decision to retire from the IPL is a significant one, and his reasons for doing so are well-understood. The demanding schedule of the tournament, combined with the intense pressure and scrutiny, can take a toll on even the most experienced players. As the IPL continues to grow in popularity, it is essential that the tournament prioritizes player welfare and ensures that players have the time and space to rest and recover between matches.
