WATCH: Ashwin’s emotional speech in Indian dressing room after retirement – ‘Everyone’s time has come… I’m just a phone call away’ | Cricket News

Ashwin began his speech in the dressing room, “Even though I’m not flaunting it, it’s a really emotional moment,” Ashwin said.

“To be honest, it’s easier to talk in a team duel. Even if I don’t display it, this is a very emotional moment. Thank you Rohit (Sharma), thank you Virat, thank you Gauti (Gambhir) Bhai. I am so happy today,” said Ashwin.

The 38-year-old then recalled his first tour to Australia, which also saw the departure of former India head coach Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman, followed by the big retirement of Sachin Tendulkar in 2013.

“It feels like I’ve just traveled around Australia for the first time. I’ve seen everyone change. Rahul Paaji has left, Sachin Paaji has left.”

“But believe me, everyone’s time is coming and it really is my time. I enjoyed it very much. I have built some great relationships, especially in the last 4-5 years. I’m leaving behind some of my teammates that I loved playing with.

“Every moment of the last four years has made me realize how much I value their relationship and them as a player. I had a great time,” he added.

“Cricket fan will not retire”

Ashwin confirmed that he would leave the Indian squad midway through the series and return to Chennai on Thursday, but not without a reassuring word to keep his teammates in mind.

“I’m going to take a flight home. But I’ll be interested to see how well you do in Melbourne. I look forward to each of your appearances.

“The international cricketer in me may have come to an end, but the cricket fan in me will never come to an end. All the best. If you need anything at all, I am just a call away,” Ashwin added.

The off-spinner is India’s second most successful bowler across all formats with 765 scalps. Ashwin’s final Test assignment was India’s previous outing in Adelaide, where he picked the last of his 537 Test wickets, the second-most ever for India in white behind Anil Kumble’s 619 scalps.