Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated R Ashwin on his international cricket retirement, praising his exceptional 14-year career. Modi's letter highlighted Ashwin's surprise retirement, comparing it to an unexpected "carrom ball.

PM Modi also made special mention of Ashwin’s memorable leave during the T20 World Cup match against Pakistan at the MCG besides heaping praise on the senior off-spinner for his 765 international wickets and the record for most Player of the Series awards in Tests.

He retired as one of India's greats, having taken 537 Test wickets, which are second only to Anil Kumble's 619, and 765 wickets in all internationals, again second only to Kumble's 953.

PM Modi penned a heartfelt letter to Ravichandran Ashwin, commending the cricketer's remarkable international career following his surprise retirement. Modi praised Ashwin's exceptional skills, innovative variations,