Ravichandran Ashwin, the legendary off-spinner known for his sharp cricketing mind and engaging personality, has always been a constant source of excitement both on and off the field. His clever bowling, tactical acumen, and witty presence in interviews have made him one of the most popular figures in Indian cricket.

In a surprising move, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) announced on Wednesday, August 27, that Ashwin would be retiring from the Indian Premier League. The news came as a shock to fans across the country, who have long admired his contributions to the franchise and the IPL as a whole.

Ashwin has been instrumental for CSK over the years, delivering crucial performances with the ball and adding valuable experience to the team. His retirement marks the end of a remarkable era in the IPL.

See Also: Kolkata Knight Riders Set to Offer Big Cash or Significant Player Trade to Delhi Capitals for KL Rahul: Reports

Ravichandran Ashwin Announces Retirement from IPL:

Ravichandran Ashwin played a pivotal role in Chennai Super Kings’ early success, helping the franchise secure their first two IPL titles in 2010 and 2011. Beyond CSK, he also contributed significantly to Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals, guiding them to runner-up finishes in 2020 and 2022, respectively.

Ashwin struggled with the ball during the 2025 IPL, taking just seven wickets in nine games as Chennai Super Kings finished last. He was even left out of CSK’s final matches. Despite this, his sudden decision to retire from the league might be one the experienced Tamil Nadu cricketer could reconsider in the future.

Reports had hinted that Ashwin’s tenure with CSK could be ending ahead of the 2026 auction. He departs the IPL as the fifth-highest wicket-taker, claiming 187 wickets in 221 matches at an impressive economy rate of 7.20. Ashwin confirmed his retirement via a post on his social media, bidding farewell to the league.

He wrote, “ 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 @BCCIfor what they have given me until now. Look forward to enjoying and making the most of what’s ahead of me🙏#cricketforlife”

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…

— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) August 27, 2025

Three Reasons Ashwin’s IPL Retirement Might Be Mistaken:

With that in mind, here are three key reasons why Ravichandran Ashwin’s decision to retire from the IPL might not be the best choice. Despite his age and recent form, the veteran still has much to offer, both on the field with his skills and off the field as a mentor to younger players.

• Ravichandran Ashwin’s IPL 2025 Return Fails to Impress at Chepauk

Ravichandran Ashwin’s return to Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2025 did not go as smoothly as fans had hoped. Despite high expectations from the hometown crowd, the 38-year-old often struggled to make an impact, even in familiar Chepauk conditions. His performances fell short of the standards that once made him a match-winner.

Several factors contributed to Ashwin’s challenges. With Ravindra Jadeja cemented as a first-choice spinner and Noor Ahmad impressing from the very first match, Ashwin’s role as the third spinner disrupted the balance of the team. This limited opportunities and made it difficult for him to consistently influence matches.

CSK often used Ashwin in various phases of the game without a clear strategy, which affected his consistency. Despite this, other IPL franchises would value a spinner of his caliber, given his experience and proven success at the highest level.

An Indian spinner with Ashwin’s credentials allows teams to maximize their overseas players in batting, pace, and all-round roles. Had CSK released him ahead of the 2026 auction, it’s highly likely that multiple franchises would have shown interest, recognizing the advantage of adding a seasoned and effective spinner to strengthen their squad, even at 38 years of age.

• Ashwin’s True Form Better Than His IPL 2025 Performance Suggests

Ravichandran Ashwin’s IPL 2025 season has been widely criticized by fans and former cricketers. However, a closer look at how he was used by CSK reveals that his role significantly affected his overall performance. The way he was deployed often worked against him, contributing to his disappointing bowling statistics.

CSK’s three-spinner strategy forced Ashwin to bowl during tough phases, particularly the powerplay. In these early overs, he was frequently targeted, conceding runs all around the ground. As a result, he struggled, finishing with an average of 112 and an economy rate of 12.44, numbers that did not reflect his true abilities as an experienced off-spinner.

When Ashwin bowled in the traditional spinner-friendly phases after the power play, his performance was far more effective. Across 22 overs, he claimed six wickets at an excellent average of 22, maintaining a tidy economy rate of 7.77, highlighting his continued skill and impact in the right conditions.

Ravichandran Ashwin recently showcased his all-round abilities in the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL), performing strongly with both bat and ball. In 10 matches, he claimed 13 wickets at an average of 21.53, maintaining an impressive economy rate of 7.36, underlining his continued effectiveness as a bowler.

With the bat, the 38-year-old contributed 297 runs at an average close to 30, striking at 153.88 and hitting two half-centuries. These performances indicate that, outside of the IPL 2025 powerplay struggles, Ashwin remains in excellent form and capable of impactful contributions.

• Spinners of Ashwin’s Caliber Are Rare in the IPL

Bowling all-rounders have always been highly prized in T20 cricket due to their ability to provide balance and flexibility to a team. Their versatility makes them essential for constructing a well-rounded playing XI.

Ravichandran Ashwin possesses a rare combination of skills, excelling both with the ball and the bat. Over the years, teams have deployed him at various batting positions, from No. 3 to 8, depending on the match situation. His experience and adaptability make him a reliable contributor in multiple scenarios.

Having an Indian spinner of Ashwin’s quality also allows franchises to maximize overseas player slots. Apart from Washington Sundar, Ashwin is arguably the best off-spin all-rounder of Test-match standard in India, and many IPL teams would have eagerly sought his services.

Cheteshwar Pujara, regarded as India’s most reliable No.3 batter, has officially announced his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket. The veteran Saurashtra cricketer shared his decision with fans on Sunday, August 24, via social media.

Known for his calm temperament and remarkable consistency, Pujara built his career around patience and resilience at the crease. He became the backbone of India’s Test batting lineup, often standing tall against challenging bowling attacks and delivering crucial innings in pressure situations.

At 37, Pujara chose to bring the curtain down on his illustrious domestic and international journey. His retirement marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy that inspired young cricketers across India to value determination and discipline in batting.

See Also: ‘He will be fighting this captaincy battle with….’ Former India player predicts Iyer-Gill captaincy battle amid Gambhir’s reported backing

Cheteshwar Pujara Announces His Retirement Through Social Media:

Cheteshwar Pujara had an outstanding Test career, playing 103 matches and amassing 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60. His record features 19 centuries and 35 fifties. Additionally, he represented India in five ODIs, where he managed to score 51 runs.

Pujara took to Instagram to announce his retirement, expressing heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported him throughout his career. In his message, he thanked teammates, coaches, fans, and family for their constant encouragement, highlighting the role each played in shaping his journey in cricket.

He wrote, “ Wearing the Indian jersey, singing the anthem, and trying my best each time I stepped on the field - it’s impossible to put into words what it truly meant. But as they say, all good things must come to an end, and with immense gratitude I have decided to retire from all forms of Indian cricket. Thank you for all the love and support!”

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Cheteshwar Pujara (@cheteshwar_pujara)

5 Cricketers Who Featured in U-19 World Cup with Pujara:

Before becoming a mainstay in international cricket, Cheteshwar Pujara rose to prominence during the 2006 Under-19 World Cup. India ended as runners-up in that edition, while Pujara stood out with exceptional performances. Across six matches, he scored 349 runs at an astonishing average of 116.33 and a strike rate of 82.11, registering two half-centuries and a brilliant hundred.

That tournament showcased Pujara’s immense talent and temperament at a young age. Alongside him, several other promising cricketers also featured in the competition. On that note, here’s a look at five players you might not know who played with him in the 2006 Under-19 World Cup.

• Piyush Chawla

Leg-spinner Piyush Chawla was part of the Indian team that made it to the final of the 2006 Under-19 World Cup. He emerged as the side’s most effective bowler, claiming 13 wickets in six matches. Chawla’s performances stood out with an impressive average of 12.15 and a strike rate of 22.69, including best bowling figures of 4/8 in the tournament.

In June this year, Chawla decided to retire from all formats of cricket, ending a long career. At the international level, he featured in 35 matches for India across formats and went on to take 43 wickets, leaving behind memorable contributions as a spinner.

• Eoin Morgan

Eoin Morgan, the former England skipper, was also part of the 2006 Under-19 World Cup, where he captained the Ireland side. He had an outstanding campaign with the bat, finishing as the tournament’s second-highest run-getter after Cheteshwar Pujara. In six innings, Morgan piled up 338 runs at an average of 67.60 and a strike rate of 85.35, which included two fifties and a brilliant century.

Morgan began his international journey with Ireland, making his ODI debut against Scotland in 2006. However, in 2009, he switched to England, where he went on to play 356 matches across formats. Over his career, he scored 10,115 runs with 59 half-centuries and 15 hundreds, famously leading England to their first-ever ODI World Cup win in 2019.

• Sunil Narine

Sunil Narine was a member of the West Indies squad in the 2006 Under-19 World Cup, sharing the stage with future stars like Kieron Pollard and Kemar Roach. During the tournament, Narine featured in five matches and managed to pick up seven wickets. He finished with a bowling average of 30.00 and a strike rate of 37.71, showcasing glimpses of his talent.

Narine later became a key figure for the West Indies at the senior level, playing 122 international games across formats. Over the course of his career, he claimed 165 wickets at an average of 26.61, which included four five-wicket hauls. After years of service to West Indies cricket, he announced his retirement from international cricket in 2023.

• Colin Munro

Colin Munro, the left-handed batter from New Zealand, was part of the 2006 Under-19 World Cup squad. In the tournament, he played five matches and contributed with the ball as well, taking four wickets. His bowling efforts came at an average of 34.00 and a strike rate of 34.75, highlighting his role as a handy all-round option for the team.

Munro later carved out a notable international career with the Black Caps, representing New Zealand in 123 matches across formats. Over that period, he scored 3,010 runs at an average of 27.87, which included 19 half-centuries and three centuries. In May 2024, the aggressive left-hander announced his retirement from international cricket, ending a memorable career.

• David Warner

The last player on this list is former Australian opener David Warner. David Warner featured in the 2006 Under-19 World Cup, appearing in five matches and batting in four innings. He scored 91 runs at an average of 30.33, striking at 131.88. His best performance included a quick half-century that highlighted his aggressive batting style.

Warner went on to enjoy a legendary international career for Australia, representing his country in 383 matches across all formats. Over the years, he accumulated 18,995 runs at an impressive average of 42.39. His record includes 98 half-centuries and 49 centuries, establishing him as one of Australia’s finest openers. He bid farewell to international cricket following the conclusion of the 2024 T20 World Cup.

Cheteshwar Pujara’s wife, Puja Pabari, penned an emotional message as the veteran batter bid farewell to Indian cricket. Pujara, known for his calmness and determination at the crease, announced his retirement from all formats on Sunday, August 24, through a heartfelt note on social media.

In her message, Puja expressed pride in her husband’s remarkable journey, highlighting the sacrifices and hard work that shaped his long international career. She acknowledged not only his resilience on the field but also his humility and discipline off it, qualities that made him a role model for aspiring cricketers and a source of strength for their family.

Puja also thanked fans and well-wishers for their constant support throughout Pujara’s career. She noted that while this chapter in Indian cricket had come to a close, the memories, lessons, and inspiration he left behind would continue to live on. Her message beautifully summed up a celebrated career.

See Also: Virender Sehwag attributes famous shots to players

Puja Pabari’s Emotional Message for Husband Cheteshwar Pujara:

To honor her husband’s cricketing journey, Puja Pabari took to Instagram with a heartfelt post. She shared a collection of pictures that reflected Cheteshwar Pujara’s most memorable moments, including a special one from the historic 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. That series remains unforgettable as India secured their first-ever Test series victory in Australia after 72 long years, with Pujara playing a crucial role.

Puja also included memories from Pujara’s landmark 100th Test match, showcasing his dedication and longevity in the sport. Along with the pictures, she penned an emotional caption, expressing her admiration, pride, and love while celebrating his remarkable achievements.

She wrote, “ Be in the present as the present is the present of the supreme presence’ - a guiding principle of the Bhagvad Gita which is something you have been living by for quite sometime now, and hope it continues to guide you in this next phase! As you bid goodbye to your first love, passion and the sport you love so much, I am glad you always gave it your all and played the game in your own calm and dignified way!”

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Puja (@puja_pabari)

She continued, “ From knowing nothing about cricket to loving you and the sport through your eyes - your journey has been a true education in life’s lessons for me, and I couldn’t be more grateful to have gone through the highs and lows of your career together. I will miss cheering you on the field, following the unshakeable routines, and at times maybe also the anxiousness before a match/series. For all the missed celebrations and adjustments made in order to prioritise cricket, lets make up for it now.”

Cheteshwar Pujara Retires from International Cricket:

Cheteshwar Pujara’s Test career was remarkable, spanning 103 matches in which he amassed 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60, decorated with 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries for India. In limited-overs cricket, he represented India in five ODIs, contributing 51 runs overall.

On August 24, Cheteshwar Pujara confirmed his retirement from cricket through an Instagram post. In his heartfelt message, he reflected on his journey, expressed gratitude for the opportunities he received, and thanked fans, teammates, and family for their constant support throughout his long and memorable career.

He wrote, “ Wearing the Indian jersey, singing the anthem, and trying my best each time I stepped on the field - it’s impossible to put into words what it truly meant. But as they say, all good things must come to an end, and with immense gratitude I have decided to retire from all forms of Indian cricket. Thank you for all the love and support!”

The 37-year-old Indian cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on Sunday (August 24). It is the end of a great era of Indian Test cricket, where Pujara had a huge role in leading a generation with his incredible patience batting, which is rare now. 

Cheteshwar Pujara's cricket career

After making his international cricket debut during the 2010 Bengaluru Test against Australia, Pujara played 103 Tests and five ODIs for India. While the right-handed batter scored only 51 runs in his ODI career, he scored 7195 runs in his Test career with an average of 43.60, including 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries. He recorded three Test double hundreds, including his best score of 206 not out against England during the 2012 Ahmedabad Test. 

Pujara faced 525 balls in his 202-run knock against Australia during the 2017 Ranchi Test. It is still a record by an Indian, as Pujara is the only Indian batter to face 500 balls in a Test innings (according to balls faced data in ESPNcricinfo).

In his first-class cricket career, Pujara scored 21301 runs in 278 matches with an average of 51.82, including 66 centuries and 81 half-centuries. Also, he was a great List A cricketer, who recorded 5759 runs in 130 matches with an average of 57.01, including 16 centuries and 34 half-centuries. He scored 1556 runs in 71 T20s (average 29.35), including one century and nine half-centuries. In his IPL career, Pujara played 30 matches and scored 390 runs (average 20.52), including one half-century. 

Pujara was known for his pure classy defensive batting, whose patience with the bat was astonishing. There were some Test matches, where the right-handed batter played the role of a wall and secured one side of the innings in a critical time. He was so special to Indian cricket that the Indian cricket family saluted him on his retirement.   

See Also: "Woh 3 din tak batting karta hai" - Know Rohit Sharma's first impression on Pujara

Watch how the Indian cricket family reacted to Cheteshwar Pujara's retirement

Thank you pujji bhai ❤️🇮🇳 @cheteshwar1 pic.twitter.com/xhJs6I67rt

— Shubman Gill (@ShubmanGill) August 24, 2025

A real warrior. He was instrumental in my stint as coach for India being the No1 side for 5 years on the trot and the 2 back to back series wins in Australia where he was simply brilliant. Well done Puji . God bless. @cheteshwar1 pic.twitter.com/4rpsngvnkP

— Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) August 24, 2025

Pujara, it was always reassuring to see you walk out at No.3.
You brought calm, courage, and a deep love for Test cricket every time you played.

Your solid technique, patience, and composure under pressure have been a pillar for the team. Out of many, the 2018 series win in… pic.twitter.com/p0mWKfD9zm

— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) August 24, 2025

Congratulations on a fabulous test career @cheteshwar1 .
Your grit ,determination and hardwork was inspiring and you can be very proud of what you have achieved. Best wishes for a memorable second innings. pic.twitter.com/xtQZPnGo2W

— Virrender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) August 24, 2025

He stood tall when the storm raged, he fought when hope was fading. Congratulations Pujji 🇮🇳@cheteshwar1 pic.twitter.com/0Tj836uoO9

— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) August 24, 2025

Your grit has always spoken before your name @cheteshwar1 Big congratulations on a wonderful career. Your aggression was visible in your defence and you’ve made India proud, Pujji. Wishing you the best for second innings.

— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) August 24, 2025

A true Test warrior who stood tall for over 100 Tests. Thank you for the memories. Wishing you all the best in your next innings, @cheteshwar1 . 🇮🇳 #ThankYouPujara

— Yusuf Pathan (@iamyusufpathan) August 24, 2025

Cheteshwar Pujara's contribution is difficult to match. An old school cricketer who flourished in the modern game, he conducted himself with dignity. Those willing to play Test cricket should follow his foot steps. @cheteshwar1

— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) August 24, 2025

Someone who always put his mind, body and soul for the country! Many congratulations on an outstanding career Puji! See you on the other side! @cheteshwar1 pic.twitter.com/gbpscDGFZd

— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) August 24, 2025

From Sydney to the Gabba and beyond, some of my best memories came batting alongside you. I will always treasure our partnerships & your contribution to Indian cricket.Congratulations on a remarkable Test career, Pujji bhai & wishing you the very best ahead.🙌@cheteshwar1#RP17 pic.twitter.com/N4m1uOPkCt

— Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) August 24, 2025

Har match aur challenge mein team ke liye khade rahe ho, @cheteshwar1! Your grit, patience, and love for the game have set a benchmark for generations to come. All the best for the next innings! 🤗❤️ pic.twitter.com/eXbFXoepP4

— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) August 24, 2025

Cheteshwar Pujara – the unsung hero of Indian cricket.
A player who always put the team before himself, who gave not just a hundred percent but everything possible for India. Your contribution to Indian cricket is immense and will be remembered for a very, very long time.… pic.twitter.com/0YmpQnpr4E

— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh)August 24, 2025

⁠Congrats on an incredible ride, @cheteshwar1. Quiet, determined, and always there when the team needed you. Time to enjoy some well-earned downtime🫡

— DK (@DineshKarthik) August 24, 2025

First of his name, last of his kind. Take a bow on a stellar career @cheteshwar1 🙌🏻 You should be mighty proud of what you achieved donning the India cap. Congratulations and all the best for what's to come 🤗 pic.twitter.com/JURHSo3QIG

— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) August 24, 2025

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma find themselves at unique crossroads in their careers. After guiding India to the T20 World Cup win last year, both legends announced their retirement from the shortest format. Earlier this year in May, they stepped away from Test cricket too, signaling a major shift in their focus.

The pair now shifts focus to ODIs, gearing up for the challenging Australia series ahead. Fans last saw them in action during the IPL, and although they were expected to feature in the Bangladesh ODIs this month, the cancellation means their return to the Indian jersey will now come in October.

However, discussions about their long-term plans continue to heat up. A report by Dainik Jagran suggested that the Australia series might mark their final appearance for India, casting uncertainty over whether the two stalwarts will feature in the 2027 World Cup.

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Rajeev Shukla Clears the Air Amid Retirement Buzz:

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have resumed training as they prepare for their white-ball return, easing ongoing speculation. Reports suggest the BCCI remains relaxed about their situation and is not rushing to take any decision regarding the duo’s future, allowing the senior batters to focus on their upcoming assignments without additional pressure.

With rumours suggesting that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma could be playing their last ODI series, the BCCI has dismissed talks of a farewell series. Rajeev Shukla, BCCI’s vice-president, appeared displeased when asked during the ‘Two Sloggers Podcast’ about organizing such an event, firmly clarifying that no such plans are being considered at present.

Rajeev Shukla said, “ When did they retire? Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will both play one-dayers. So, if they are playing, why are you worried about a farewell series? Yes, they have retired from two formats in phases, but they are playing in ODIs, right? So please don't get worked up over it.”

What’s next for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli?

Shri Rajeev Shukla @ShuklaRajiv (Vice President, BCCI; Director, Asian Cricket Council; MP, Rajya Sabha) shares his thoughts in a very special episode of Long Off Lounge.

Now live on YouTube — https://t.co/Z5oxTzCbrL@UPCACricket |… pic.twitter.com/srflE3Bc9M

— UP T20 League (@t20uttarpradesh) August 22, 2025

Rajeev Shukla Also Clears BCCI’s Stance Towards Player’s Retirement:

He emphasized that retirement decisions are personal, with the BCCI never instructing players to step away. According to him, it is a personal choice, and the board respects whatever call a cricketer makes regarding the conclusion of their professional career.

He further said, “ Our policy at BCCI is very clear. We don't tell any player to retire. A player himself makes that call. He has to decide, and we respect that. We can only decide something when it’s official. Virat Kohli is extremely fit, and Rohit Sharma has been playing so well. Why are you worried about the farewell?’

BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla highlighted that Virat Kohli remains among the fittest cricketers, while Rohit Sharma continues to excel in ODIs. He requested fans to avoid farewell talks, confirming both stars will play India’s three ODIs in Australia on October 19, 23, and 25 at Perth, Adelaide, and Sydney.

New Zealand all-rounder Thamsyn Newton has brought her cricketing career to a close, finishing a 14-year journey during which she represented the White Ferns twice in ICC World Cups and off the back of several domestic titles.

Newton, 30, made her international debut in 2015 in a T20I against Sri Lanka, and gave a tidy bowling performance before making her ODI debut in 2016 against Australia, taking the wicket of opening batter Nicole Bolton. The Kiwi played 10 ODIs and 15 T20Is, taking 11 and nine wickets respectively. Her best ODIs include a five-wicket haul against Pakistan, and her best T20I figures of 3/9 came in just her third game.

Overall, opportunities with the bat were limited for Newton, scoring 57 runs in ODIs and 22 in T20Is during her international career. In the domestic space, Newton was known for her big hitting, so it was surprising she didn't clear the boundary in her T20I career. Her last ODI match was in 2017, and her last T20I match was in 2021.

 Domestic Success and International Experience

Newton was a constant presence in New Zealand’s domestic tournaments. She won the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield once with both Canterbury and Wellington. She won the Super Smash four times with Wellington. Her last professional appearance was between the Central Districts in the Women’s One-Day Competition. In that match, she failed to score a run and didn’t bowl.

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The all-rounder had a brief period in Australia’s Women’s Big Bash League representing Perth Scorchers in the 2017/18 season. She scored 50 runs in eight innings and took six wickets at an average of 23.33.

A Capacity Athlete and a Valued Competitor

In addition to her cricket, Newton has once again demonstrated her versatility as an athlete by playing rugby for Wellington Pride and Hawke's Bay Tui in the Farah Palmer Cup. Showing that she is a multi-talented athlete.

From making her White Ferns debut to lifting several trophies on the domestic scene, Newton's career has been one of consistency, flexibility, and competition. Her international numbers do not begin to express the value she added to the teams she played for; her contribution (in terms of ball in hand and fielding) will stay in New Zealand women's cricket.

When Newton leaves, she will have memories to treasure, she will have trophies, and she will have the admiration of her teammates and supporters alike - a fitting legacy for a loyal and versatile participant.

The West Indies' explosive all-rounder, Andre Russell, has made the announcement he will retire from international cricket after playing the first two T20Is against Australia. The matches will be played at Russell's home ground, Sabina Park, Jamaica. The series begins on July 20th, heralding Russell's departure after a terrific international career, which included his rise to becoming one of the game's most explosive T20 players of his generation.

Russell, now 37, played 84 T20Is for the West Indies, scoring 1078 runs and taking 61 wickets. While he last played ODI cricket in 2019, his impact in the shortest format of the game continued from then, including his key roles at the T20 World Cups in 2012 and 2016 when the West Indies lifted the trophy. Russell also played one Test and 56 ODIs in international cricket.

“Words cannot explain what it meant. To represent the West Indies has been one of the proudest achievements in my life,” Russell said. “I want to finish my international career on a high while being a role model for the next generation of cricketers coming out of the Caribbean.”

ALSO SEE: [WATCH] Jemimah Rodrigues' stunning catch sent set English captain back to pavilion in ENG W vs IND W 1st ODI

Russell to Retire as West Indies Look Ahead to 2026

Russell’s decision comes just seven months before the next T20 World Cup, set to be held in India and Sri Lanka in 2026. He becomes the second high-profile West Indian after Nicholas Pooran to step away from international cricket in recent weeks.

West Indies coach Daren Sammy paid tribute to Russell, calling him a “fierce competitor” whose hunger to win never wavered. Matthew Forde has been named as Russell’s replacement for the remainder of the Australia series. Meanwhile, teenager Jewel Andrew and pacer Jediah Blades have earned maiden T20I call-ups. Andrew impressed during CPL 2024, becoming the youngest West Indian to score a fifty in a major T20 league.

With Shai Hope leading the squad and Rovman Powell returning, the focus for West Indies is already on the 2026 T20 World Cup. “We want to regain our form at home and build momentum,” said Sammy. Russell leaves behind a legacy of power-hitting, match-winning performances, and an undying passion for the maroon jersey.

BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla has cleared the air on the recent retirements of Indian cricket legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from the Test format, insisting that the Board never asked or pressured them to take the decision. speaking after a special meeting between the Indian men's and women's teams with UK King Charles III at St. James's Palace in London, Shukla stated that the retirement was entirely a personal call made by both players.

“They have retired themselves. We will always miss them; they are both great batsmen, and the good thing for us is that they are available for ODIs,” said Shukla in a conversation with ANI. “It is the policy of BCCI that we never tell any player to retire. We will always consider them as great batsmen,” he added, acknowledging the void left in the current squad during the ongoing five-match Test series against England.

While Rohit and Kohli’s presence is being sorely missed, the Indian teams had a memorable moment off the field when they met King Charles III at the royal palace. Captains Shubman Gill and Harmanpreet Kaur, along with team members and coaching staff, were in attendance. Shukla described the interaction as “historic” and noted that the King’s warm and informed engagement left a lasting impression on the players.

King Charles Asks About Akash Deep’s Sister, Siraj’s Dismissal

Shukla shared that King Charles had done remarkable “homework” before the meeting and surprised many with his attention to detail. “Players are very happy because he asked for all personal details of each player. He asked Saikia ji (BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia) and me about whether Arun Jaitley was my friend and what happened to him, and when I told him that he had died, he asked me to pay condolences to his family. He also asked about Akash Deep's sister's illness,” he revealed.

Watch the video here

#WATCH | London, UK | BCCI vice president Rajeev Shukla says, "...We are all feeling the absence of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The decision to retire made by Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli was their own. It is the policy of BCCI that we never tell any player to retire...We will… pic.twitter.com/4ShzHNG5W3

— ANI (@ANI) July 15, 2025

See Also: 'How Can You Lose Two Games With Jasprit Bumrah?' – Former England captain questions India's playing XI for ENG vs IND 2025 3rd Test

In a short exchange with Shubman Gill, the King even brought up the final moments of India’s heartbreaking 22-run defeat in the third Test at Lord’s, highlighting Shoaib Bashir’s spinning delivery that bowled out Mohammed Siraj. Gill calmly responded, “It’s a game of cricket.”

Former Indian captain MS Dhoni is all set to embark on a new adventure. As he looks to cherish the final moments of his cricketing career, Dhoni has unveiled plans to start a new business that will cater to providing oil and deodorants. As per reports, the 43-year-old has applied to obtain a trademark for his business. The Indian legend came up with a cheeky name for his trademark and named it after his popular nickname, "CAPTAIN COOL". 

The application was filed on June 5 and has been formally received and cleared by the Intellectual Property India on June 29. Dhoni will be the sole proprietor of this business. However, certain details, most notably the validity of the trademark, appear to be missing. 

See also: Dhoni on Modern Cricket: Adapting to a New Era of Risk and Innovation

"CAPTAIN COOL" Trademark goes live

Mahendra Singh Dhoni has applied for trademark- CAPTAIN COOL

Ab aayega captain cool powder, oil, deodorant, movie 😂 pic.twitter.com/jaoeKYi75Z

— maithun (@Being_Humor) June 30, 2025

As soon as the post was made viral, several Twitter users flooded the comments section. While many called him out for "stealing credit" even for a quest to obtain a trademark, some just laughed it off as they were left in splits. Be it on the field or off the field, Dhoni does not fail to entertain his fan base. Given his charismatic character, every move that the former Indian captain makes helps him garner endless headlines.

At age 43, Dhoni does not have enough cricket left in him. The Indian legend has retired from all forms of cricket but continues to play as an uncapped player in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for his franchise, Chennai Super Kings (CSK). As he looks to draw his glorious cricketer chapter to a close, Dhoni has his ambitions set on seeking an alternative career path after cricket. It remains to be seen whether he will still be involved with the game at any capacity once he fully gets committed to his business. 

Five-time IPL champions Chennai Super Kings ended the IPL 2025 journey as the last-placed team, but ended the season strongly with an 83-run win against the present table-toppers Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad. After the end of the match, CSK legendary captain MS Dhoni opened up on his IPL retirement. 

Everyone was eyeing the Gujarat Titans vs Chennai Super Kings match, the 67th game of the IPL 2025, as it was the last game for CSK this season. At the end of the match, there was a big chance to know about the five-time IPL-winning captain MS Dhoni's future in the tournament. 

Also Watch: MS Dhoni reveals his bond with Virat Kohli

Not saying done; not saying coming back: MS Dhoni on his IPL retirement

At the end of the match, when the CSK stand-in captain MS Dhoni was asked about his IPL future, he didn't clarify anything. In the presentation ceremony, Dhoni clarified that he would make a decision on it in four or five months. He wants to give himself enough time to learn about his remaining hunger for the game, which will help him to decide his IPL future. He clearly added that neither he was done nor would he come back.