Ex-Indian cricketer Ambati Rayudu recently made highlight of his retirement from ODI cricket, a subject that generated a lot of controversy in 2019-20. He retired in 2019 after being omitted from India's World Cup team twice.

He was initially not added to the 15-man roster for the World Cup in 2019. Subsequently, when Shikhar Dhawan and Vijay Shankar got injured, selectors picked Rishabh Pant and Mayank Agarwal ahead of him. Disappointed by this, Rayudu chose to retire from international cricket.

Ambati Rayudu's Cricket Journey

Rayudu came to be recognized initially as the skipper of India's Under-19 side during the 2004 World Cup. His teammates were future greats such as Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, Dinesh Karthik, and Robin Uthappa. He however waited nearly a decade to represent India.

He made his first ODI in 2013 against Zimbabwe but rose to prominence during India's tour of England in 2014. His consistent performances earned him a spot in the team. Even though he was selected for the 2015 World Cup, he did not get to feature in any of the matches.

Though he was in and out of the Indian team he did well in domestic cricket and the IPL. He was a key player for Mumbai Indians, winning championships with them in 2013, 2015, and 2017 before shifting his base to Chennai Super Kings in 2018.

Rayudu on why he retired so early 🤣#TimeOut pic.twitter.com/rbUX92Bhba

— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) March 27, 2025

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2019 World Cup Snub and Retirement

Rayudu was a major contributor to CSK's 2018 IPL title, with 602 runs in the season. He earned a place in India's Asia Cup team and the West Indies series on the basis of his performance. But he didn't perform well against Australia and lost his spot in the 2019 World Cup team and hence his international career.

He ended his ODI career with 1,694 runs in 55 matches at a stunning average of 47.06. He also had three centuries and ten fifties to his name. He, however, featured in just six T20Is, making 42 runs, and never had the opportunity to play Test cricket.

Rayudu's Funny Reply to a Fan

During ESPNCricinfo’s Time Out show, a fan from Bihar asked Rayudu why he retired early despite having good stats. The fan also said he wanted to meet him.

Rayudu humorously responded that it would take an entire week to tell the entire story, leaving everyone in splits. He has, over time, suggested that Virat Kohli, Ravi Shastri, and MSK Prasad were involved in his not being picked for the 2019 World Cup team.

Dubai International Cricket Stadium is hosting the India vs New Zealand match in the Final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. While Indian spinners completely dominated, the all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja's retirement speculation has suddenly risen after completing his 10-over quota. 

New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner had no hesitation to choose bat first after winning the toss in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Final. Although the Blackcaps had a strong start, mainly thanks to the opener Rachin Ravindra, Indian spinners controlled the first innings as the Kiwis struggled to bring any solid answers.

New Zealand openers Will Young and Rachin Ravindra had a 57-run partnership for the first wicket, where Rachin was smashing the Indian bowlers. Indian cricketers were more frustrated after giving two lives to the left-handed opening batter, who was completely looking dangerous. 

Then the Indian spinners came to dominate. Once the first wicket fell in the eighth over, as Young was dismissed by Varun Chakravarthy, Indian spinners completely suffocated Kiwi batters with their impressive line and length deliveries consistently, especially when the turning was lower than the other Champions Trophy 2025 matches in Dubai. 

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Ravindra Jadeja was superb with the ball in the Final

Ravindra Jadeja was once again excellent with the ball in hand as he had the bowling figures of 10-0-30-1. The left-arm spinner conceded only one four and recorded 35 dot balls, while taking the wicket of Tom Latham.  Once Jadeja completed his over, former Indian captain Virat Kohli hugged the Indian all-rounder. It may be an appreciation for impressive bowling performance, but it can be a sign of retirement as Kohli has the natural gesture similarly to appreciate a player for the last time. While the Indian fans are hoping for the false retirement speculation about Jadeja, only time will tell the story. 

Virat Kohli hugged Ravindra Jadeja after he completed his last over. . Appreciation or Sign of Retirement? Jadeja playing his last ODI today ? #INDvsNZ pic.twitter.com/1FDYq9pjgS

— Shubhankar Mishra (@shubhankrmishra) March 9, 2025

#INDvsNZ #Jadeja pic.twitter.com/DDefg0wrvd

— MSD Fan (@KelieBro) March 9, 2025

ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Bowler Ravindra Jadeja was outstanding 

In the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Jadeja picked up five wickets, but his economy rate was 4.35 after delivering 42 overs. In the entire tournament, the left-arm spinner delivered 127 dot balls and conceded only 10 fours and two sixes. 

Rohit Sharma's early coach, Dinesh Lad, recently made comments on the Indian captain and his illustrious career. Appreciating Rohit's success, Lad wished the star batsman to play until the 2027 ODI World Cup.

"I want Rohit to play the 2027 ODI World Cup and then retire," Lad said to ANI.

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Rohit Sharma's Childhood coach Dinesh Lad talking about Rohit & his greatness. 🌟

- He said "I want Rohit will play 2027 ODI World Cup & then retire". (ANI).pic.twitter.com/700FF2y47E

— Tanuj Singh (@ImTanujSingh) March 9, 2025

Rohit, famous for his classy stroke play and captaincy, has been the pillar of Indian cricket. With his experience and match-winning skills, viewers would love him to play for a couple of more years before leaving the game.

Australian cricket veteran Steve Smith has made his One Day International (ODI) retirement official after Australia's semi-final loss to India in the Champions Trophy 2025. The 35-year-old veteran batter, who scored a gritty 73 as the top scorer for his side, told his teammates straight after the match that it was his last ODI outing.

But Smith has asserted that he will play Test and T20I cricket, with emphasis on future big red-ball series, such as the World Test Championship Final, West Indies tour, and Ashes series against England in Australia.

An Emotional Farewell

Looking back at his career, Smith has credited being part of an exemplary ODI career lasting almost 15 years. It has been a wonderful ride, and I have enjoyed every moment of it. There have been so many great times and great memories. Winning two World Cups was a wonderful highlight, as well as the many great teammates who were part of the journey," Smith stated.

He added that with the 2027 ODI World Cup looming, it was the appropriate time for Australia to begin planning for the future.

Now is an excellent time for individuals to begin preparing for the 2027 World Cup, so it is the perfect time to step aside."

🚨BREAKING🚨: Australian stalwart Steve Smith has announced his retirement from ODI cricket#SteveSmith #CricketAustralia pic.twitter.com/eTYWGLGnFu

— CricTracker (@Cricketracker) March 5, 2025

Steve Smith's Magnificent ODI Career

Smith departs ODIs with a fantastic record:

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• 5800 runs in 170 games
• 12 centuries and 32 half-centuries
• Two-time ICC Cricket World Cup champion (2015, 2023)
• Captained Australia in 64 ODIs, winning 32

Smith was instrumental in Australia's 2015 World Cup win under Michael Clarke and also a member of the team that won the trophy once again in 2023 under Pat Cummins.

His stint in leadership included many highlights such as series wins against England and India in 2016, a Chappell-Hadlee Trophy victory, and a tri-series victory over South Africa and West Indies. His most recent effort was guiding Australia to a 3-0 ODI clean sweep against West Indies in 2023-24.

Tribute from Cricket Australia

After his statement, Cricket Australia's Selectors Chairman, George Bailey, noted Smith's input into Australian cricket.

"We wholeheartedly agree and endorse Steve's retirement from One Day International cricket. His batting record over 167 matches is second to none, and to depart the format as a two-time World Cup champion is testament to his place among the great Australian ODI players."

Bailey also reaffirmed that Smith is entirely committed to Test cricket, where he remains an integral leader and precious asset.

The Journey of a Leg-Spinner to a Great Batsman

The career of Smith on the international scene started in 2010, when he played as a leg-spinning all-rounder against the West Indies. Over time, he developed into one of the great batters of his time with his unorthodox batting and capability to command in all weather.

Apart from his batting exploits, Smith also made contributions with the ball, picking up 28 wickets at a mean of 34.67. His performance in ODIs saw him receive several awards, including:

• Australian Men's ODI Player of the Year (2015, 2021)
• ICC Men's ODI Team of the Year (2015)

What's Next for Smith?
Even though his ODI career is over, Smith's attention now turns to red-ball cricket, where he is still an integral part of the Australian Test team. With the World Test Championship Final, the West Indies tour, and the Ashes series on the horizon, fans can still look forward to witnessing the Australian maestro at his best.

As Australia sets its sights on a new era of ODIs, Steve Smith's legacy as a two-time World Cup champion, a fearless captain, and one of the greatest batters of his era will always be remembered in cricketing history.

Sheldon Jackson Announces His Retirement from Professional Cricket

Veteran wicketkeeper-batter Sheldon Jackson has announced his retirement from professional cricket. He did so after Saurashtra recently exited the Ranji Trophy. His decision has thus sealed what has been a tremendous 15-year run in domestic cricket, with Sheldon Jackson emerging as one of the most consistent performers on the Indian circuit.

Sheldon Jackson has announced his retirement from professional cricket.

- He scored over 7,000 runs in First Class cricket at an average of 46. 🌟 pic.twitter.com/Q8xhoYqQTO

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) February 11, 2025

A Stalwart in First-Class Cricket
Jackson played 106 First-Class matches, with an aggregate score of 7,283 runs at an average of 45.80. He scored 21 centuries and 39 half-centuries; thus, anchoring innings and match-winning knocks are testament to his outstanding cricketing skill. His performances helped Saurashtra become one of the most formidable teams in the domestic circuit.
Important Contributions towards Saurashtra
One of Jackson's most memorable games was the Vijay Hazare Trophy final held in 2022, which he played after scoring an unbeaten 133-run knock as Saurashtra won the championship. He always proved to be a great leadership figure and with his experience for the team had been very handy in winning years after years of matches, earning him respect inside the dressing room.

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IPL and Limited Overs Career
He also played in the Indian Premier League (IPL) in which he represented Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Though opportunity in top format came to him rarely, he proved himself every time. In January 2025, he announced his retirement from limited-overs formats for playing First-Class cricket only. And now, with the end of Saurashtra's Ranji Trophy campaign, he has decided not to play further in all formats of the game.

Australian cricketer Marcus Stoinis has announced retirment from ODI cricket. Currently with his powerful batting skill and relatively sound medium-pace bowling, the all-rounder has decided to leave the 50-over format and choose the T20 game for his future.

🚨 MARCUS STOINIS RETIRED FROM ODI FORMAT. 🚨 pic.twitter.com/2Xr6Xez7Dv

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 6, 2025

Reason for leaving ODIs :

Stoinis said that it wasn't an easy decision to retire from ODI cricket, but he felt that the time had come for him to move on. "Playing ODIs for Australia has been an incredible experience. I'm grateful for every moment in the green and gold," he added while looking back at his journey.

With the ICC Champions Trophy soon, Australia is now going to look for an all-rounder to play the role for them after this departure.

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Next for the Marcus Stoinis

• Continue playing T20 for Australia
• Participating T20 leagues from corner of the gloab
• Focus on upcoming T20 world cup

Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin revealed his sudden decision to retire from international cricket after the end of the rain-interrupted Brisbane Test.

The 38-year-old Indian legendary spinner Ravichandran Ashwin surprised cricket fans by retiring from international cricket during the middle of the recently concluded Australia tour. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 had five Tests, while Ashwin announced his retirement at the end of the third Test of the series. 

Out of the first three Tests of the series in the latest Australia tour, Ashwin played only the second Test at Adelaide Oval, which was a day-night pink-ball Test match. He picked up one wicket in that Test match but was dropped from the next Test at The Gabba in Brisbane as India replaced him with the all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. 

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I want to play more cricket: Ravichandran Ashwin

On his YouTube channel, Ashwin talked about his sudden retirement from international cricket without a farewell match. Although he wants to play more cricket, the 38-year-old felt that the Indian team wasn’t looking at him for the future. Ashwin didn’t want to stay in the team only for the farewell Test despite not deserving the place. 

Ashwin said, "I want to play more cricket. Where is the place? Obviously not in the Indian dressing room but from somewhere else. I want to be honest with the game. Imagine if I want to play farewell Test but I do not deserve a place. Imagine, I am only in the team because it is my farewell Test. I do not want that. I felt there was more strength in my cricket. I could have played more but it is always better to finish when people ask 'why not' than why.”

There is no need for a farewell: Ashwin

Ashwin clarifies that he doesn’t believe in the farewell match. He feels that the farewell match doesn’t make much difference for a player. 

The legendary off-spinner added, "What difference will this make if I came out with the ball and people are clapping? How long will people talk about it? When social media was not there, people talked about it and forgot after one week. There is no need for a farewell. The game has given us a lot and we have played with a lot of happiness.”

Ashwin ended his Test career as the second-leading Test wicket-taker for India and the eighth-leading Test wicket-taker overall, with 537 wickets in 106 Tests. He also finished as the 11th leading wicket-taker in international cricket and the second-most international wicket-taker for India, with 765 wickets in 287 matches.

Ashwin was a member of the Indian team that won the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 and ICC Champions Trophy 2013.

Former Indian spin-bowling legend Ravi Ashwin has got himself in the eye of the storm following his remarks on the Hindi language during a graduation ceremony at Rajalakshmi Engineering College in Kancheepuram, Tamil Nadu. His negative comments on the Hindi language sparked nationwide outrage and widespread condemnation from his ardent supporters. 

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Ashwin insists Hindi is not national but an official language

Whilst addressing a gathering at the Rajalakshmi Engineering College, Ashwin asked which language should he choose while delivering his speech. Although English and Hindi received a warm response, the mention of the Hindi language instantly plunged the audience into a state of silence.  

“I thought I should say it, Hindi is not our national language; it is an official language.”

Ashwin was quoted by DT next saying that Hindi may not be our national language but it is certainly an official language given its wide audience base all over India. Ashinw received a warm applause from the Tamil-dominated audience but a war soon broke out on social media who deemed his remarks critical.

Here is the video:

#Watch | தமிழுக்கு அதிர்ந்த அரங்கம்.. இந்திக்கு SILENT.. "இந்தி தேசிய மொழி இல்ல".. பதிவு செய்த அஸ்வின்!

சென்னையில் உள்ள தனியார் பொறியியல் கல்லூரியில் நடைபெற்ற பட்டமளிப்பு விழாவில் மாஸ் காட்டிய கிரிக்கெட் வீரர் அஸ்வின்#SunNews | #Chennai | #Ashwin | @ashwinravi99 pic.twitter.com/TeWPzWAExQ

— Sun News (@sunnewstamil) January 9, 2025

India, being a linguistically diverse nation has nearly 22 recognized languages as stated by the constitution of India. Hindi and English are the top two widely spoken languages within the country and hold the status of an official language. However, confusion looms between the language's national and official status, and more often than not, this ambiguity often leads to clashes and misinterpretation. 

In recent times, the government of India has been proactively trying to unite the entire nation under the umbrella of one main language - Hindi. However, this notion has been confronted by many states and regional parties especially Tamil Nadu, who stand opposed to the wide-scale implementation of the Hindi language. Supporters on social media argued that an individual of Ashwin's prominence ought to avoid expressing opinions on delicate matters such as language.

The 38-year-old New Zealand star opening batter Martin Guptill officially announced his retirement from international cricket. He last played an international match in October 2022.

Martin Guptill made his international cricket debut in 2009 when he made his debuts in all three international cricket formats in the same year. He played 47 Tests, 198 ODIs, and 122 T20Is, where the right-handed batter scored 2586 runs (average 29.38), 7346 runs (average 41.73), and 3531 runs (average 31.81), respectively. The Blackcaps star recorded three Test centuries, 18 ODI centuries, and two ODI centuries. 

Martin Guptill's last international matches

Guptill played his last Test in October 2016 at Indore against the hosts India. In September 2022, he played his last ODI against Australia at Cairns. His last T20I as well as international cricket appearance was against Bangladesh at Christchurch in October 2022. 

Guptill was also a key member for New Zealand in their runners-up journeys in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 and 2019 and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021.

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I will forever cherish the memories: Martin Guptill

On his retirement, Guptill officially stated, “As a young kid it was always my dream to play for New Zealand and I feel incredibly lucky and proud to have played 367 games for my country. I will forever cherish the memories made wearing the silver fern alongside a great group of guys.

Guptill also thanked everyone who supported him in his incredible international cricket journey. He added, “I want to say a huge thanks to all my team-mates and coaching staff over the years, in particular Mark O’Donnell who has coached me since the Under 19 level and been a source of ongoing support and wisdom over my career.

“A special thanks must also go to my manager Leanne McGoldrick - all of the work behind the scenes never went unnoticed and I’ll be forever appreciative of all your support. To my wife Laura and our beautiful children Harley and Teddy – thank-you. Thank you Laura for the sacrifices you have made for me and our family. You’ve been my biggest supporter, my rock and my counsel through all of the ups and downs that come with the game. I am eternally grateful.

“Finally I’d like to thank all the cricket fans, here in NZ and around the world for all their support throughout the years.”

However, Guptill will continue his T20 franchise cricket journey. Here are some key stats of Guptill’s international cricket career. 

• First New Zealand batter to record a century on ODI debut. It was the 2009 Auckland ODI against West Indies, where the right-handed batter scored 122 not out, the second-highest score by an ODI debutant at that time (presently the fifth-highest score by an ODI debutant). 

• Holds the record for the second most T20I appearances for New Zealand (122 T20Is). 

• Holds the record for sixth most international appearances for New Zealand (367 matches). 

• After Brendon McCullum, Guptill became the second New Zealand batter to record at least one century in each of three international cricket formats. 

• With 237 not out against West Indies in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 Quarter-finals, Guptill holds the record for the only ODI double-century by a New Zealand batter, the second double-century and highest score in the ICC Cricket World Cup history, and the second-highest score in the ODI history.

• All-time leading T20I run-scorer for New Zealand (3531 runs). He also finished as the fifth-leading run-scorer in T20I history.

• With 7346 ODI runs, Guptill records the third most ODI runs by a New Zealand cricketer.

• With 18 ODI centuries, Guptill holds the second-most ODI centuries record for New Zealand. 

• With 13,463 international runs, Guptill finished his international career as the fifth-leading international run-scorer for New Zealand.

• With 68 T20I catches, Guptill holds the record for the most T20I catches by a New Zealand non-wicketkeeper and the third most T20I catches among overall non-wicketkeepers. 

• With 104 ODI catches, Guptill finished as the third most ODI catch-taker among the New Zealand non-wicketkeepers.

• With 222 international catches, Guptill ended his career as the third-leading international catch-taker as a non-wicketkeeper for New Zealand. 

Today, Ravichandran Ashwin officially announced his retirement from international cricket following the Brisbane Test, which ended in a thrilling draw. The announcement, made alongside Rohit Sharma during a press conference, marked the end of an unforgettable chapter in Indian cricket. The moment was emotional, not only for Ashwin but for cricket fans around the world. Before the press conference, Ashwin was seen talking with Virat Kohli, and a warm hug between them spoke volumes about the bond they shared. Ashwin began his statement, “I pardon for not taking your questions. I am here to announce my retirement from international cricket.” After his announcement, tributes poured in from all over the cricketing world. Fans, former teammates, opposition players, and cricket experts all took a moment to appreciate Ashwin’s incredible impact on the game. 

Ashwin’s Legacy: Top Career Achievements

Ravichandran Ashwin’s career is marked by more than just impressive statistics. Here are the top achievements that define his career:

• 2nd Highest Wicket-Taker in Test Cricket for India: With 537 wickets, Ashwin became India’s second highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, with only Anil Kumble ahead of him on the list.
• ICC Player of the Year (2016): Recognized for his all-round brilliance across formats.
• Fastest Indian to 300 Test Wickets: Highlighting his consistency and skill

See Also: Ravichandran Ashwin retires from international cricket

Ashwin’s Top Memorable Moments

Ashwin’s career was filled with memorable performances. Here are some iconic moments that stand out:

• 2013 Champions Trophy Final: Ashwin bowled the final over under immense pressure, helping India clinch victory in a thrilling finish.
• 2022 T20 World Cup vs. Pakistan: His sharp cricketing mind shone through as he left the ball close to the leg stump in a tense moment, playing a key role in the team’s success.

Ashwin’s Impact Beyond Achievements

Ashwin’s legacy goes beyond records and accolades — he was integral to many of India’s most significant wins. His influence on the game and the lasting inspiration he provided to millions of fans will continue to echo throughout the cricketing world.