Ashwin always more cerebral than emotional, except on his final day

Ashwin, emotional on final day

R. Ashwin nearly tripped as he walked into a room, late on Wednesday afternoon in the Gabba bowels. He had just emerged from the Indian dressing room, minutes after play had been called off on Day 5. His eyes looked puffy, showing signs of emotion. This was the end of his 13-year cricket career for India.

Ashwin found the Indian team media manager and accompanied him upstairs for his final media appearance. He read a statement, but was too emotional to take questions. A pat on the back, a few smiles, and "congratulations" were exchanged in the elevator on his way back.

Throughout his career, Ashwin was known for his cerebral approach, rather than emotional. His off-spin was a blend of art and science. He always had questions, seeking more information, even from ground-level observations. His hunger for inputs remained till his last Test.

A couple of days before the Adelaide Test, Ashwin seemed at peace, expressing happiness with his career achievements. His decision to leave the Border-Gavaskar Trophy midway was likely well thought out, considering the seamer-friendly MCG surfaces and the unreliable tactic of playing a second spinner at the SCG.

Finally, Ashwin could feel and show emotion. He did so, on his last day as an international cricketer.