New Delhi: R Ashwin might have called time on his international career but wants to play on for Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League, the off-spinner said after landing in Chennai on Thursday morning.
The 37-year-old was given a grand welcome by his family and friends at the airport a day after he abruptly ended his national team career. Ashwin said he didn’t have any regrets at the manner he ended his decade a half long stint in international cricket.
But he insisted to have energy and motivation left in him to play in the IPL for five-time champions CSK, who has bought him in the mega auction held last month.
“I never thought so many people will come here. I just wanted a quiet entry, and was looking forward to relax at home. But you have made my day,” Ashwin said on Thursday.
“I have played Test cricket for so many years, but the last time (I saw something) like this was after the 2011 World Cup. It’s emotional for a lot of people, and may be it will sink in (in some time) but for me, personally, it is a great sense of relief and satisfaction.
“It was very instinctive and it has been running in my head for a while. I just felt (it) on day four and I just called it a day.”
‘Fire to play still burning bright’
Ashwin said he is far from done with cricket though after taking 765 wickets across formats for India, 537 of them being in Tests.
“To be honest, we all go through a lot in our career, not only for cricketers but in general. Generally, when I go to sleep I remember a lot of things like taking wickets, making runs, but those memories are not there in the last two years.
“So, that was a clear indication that we need to take a different route now. I have not set any new goals, as I just want to relax now. Actually, it’s difficult for me to stay inactive, but I want to try that now,” he said.
Ashwin will be in the CSK squad for the first time since 2015, and also plans to play for Dindigul Dragons in the Tamil Nadu Premier League.
“I think that part for me is still burning bright. I am going to play for CSK and don’t be surprised if I aspire to play for as long as I can,” Ashwin said. “I don’t think Ashwin the cricketer is done, I think only Ashwin the Indian cricketer called time. That’s it.”
R Ashwin was given a grand welcome by his family and friends in Chennai on Thursday, a day after he abruptly ended his international career Cricket Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
