When Your Mother Was in the Hospital...': PM Modi's Emotional Letter to R Ashwin After Retirement

Indian cricket legend Ravichandran Ashwin recently stunned fans and teammates by announcing his retirement from all forms of international cricket. He made the announcement immediately after the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test concluded at Brisbane's Gabba. Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded with an emotional letter praising Ashwin's career and contributions to Indian cricket.

PM Modi's Tribute to Ashwin

In his emotional letter, PM Modi expressed how the surprise retirement caught him and everyone else off guard. He likened Ashwin's decision to a "carrom ball." He mentioned how much cricket fans would miss the iconic jersey number 99 along with the anticipation Ashwin brought every time he stepped onto the field.

PM Modi talked about the influence of Ashwin in Test cricket and pointed out that he won the most Man of the Series awards in the format. He praised Ashwin for his ability to weave a web around opponents, a skill that was key to India's numerous Test successes.

Acknowledging Personal Sacrifices

PM Modi also made reference to Ashwin's personal challenges while remembering how he had come back to the team when his mother was admitted to a hospital and he had been playing against South Africa despite being unable to contact his family during Chennai floods. He said all these depicted the commitment and resilience shown by Ashwin.

Career Highlights

PM Modi hailed Ashwin's brilliant career, such as his Test debut, where he took five wickets, India's 2011 World Cup-winning team, and the last over of 2013 Champions Trophy where India had won.