Ravichandran Ashwin's new chapter: From YouTuber to cricket academy owner; post-retirement careers
In a surprise announcement, R Ashwin revealed his retirement from international cricket after the third Test between India and Australia in Brisbane on December 18. With 537 wickets, Ashwin retires as India¡¯s second-highest Test wicket-taker.
In a surprise announcement, Indian cricket team spinner R Ashwin revealed his retirement from international cricket following the third Test between India and Australia in Brisbane on Wednesday, December 18. Ashwin, who was present at the post-match press conference, made the announcement alongside skipper Rohit Sharma after the Gabba Test ended in a draw. Ashwin had played in the 2nd match of the five-Test series in Adelaide but was replaced by Ravindra Jadeja for the Brisbane Test. The spinner retires as India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests, with 537 wickets in 106 matches, trailing only Anil Kumble (619 wickets).
The love we give away is the only love we keep. ???? pic.twitter.com/kfkGjGfNE7
¡ª Ashwin ?? (@ashwinravi99) December 18, 2024
While fans and his colleagues have been talking about his retirement, this all-rounder has already kept himself engaged with post-retirement ventures. Let's take a look at what he has ventured into.
YouTuber:
With around 1.54 million subscribers and over 700 videos, his YouTube channel has become quite popular. Initially, he often spoke in a blend of English and Tamil, which led to his audience waiting for subtitles. To reach a wider audience, he later launched a Hindi channel called "Ash Ki Baat." From IPL insights to World Cup moments and even his "Kutty Stories with Ash," fans have thoroughly enjoyed his unique perspective on the world of cricket.
Author:
He launched his book "I Have the Streets - A Kutti Cricket Story", co-authored with Sidharth Monga, at the Taj Coromandel Hotel in Chennai. The book offers an in-depth look at his journey from a health-challenged child to a cricketing legend. It explores the joys and struggles of growing up in a cricket-obsessed neighborhood, providing readers an authentic glimpse into his formative years. "Please, do not call this an autobiography. Who am I to write an autobiography? I have just tried to take you through my story," he said during the launch.
Chess franchise:
Ashwin became a co-owner of the American Gambits, a team that competed in the second edition of the Global Chess League, a joint venture between Tech Mahindra and the International Chess Federation. "We're thrilled to introduce the American Gambits to the chess world. With a blend of strategic brilliance and unwavering determination, our team aims to redefine the game. As co-owner, I'm excited to witness their journey and contribute to their success," Ashwin said in a statement.
Cricket academy:
R Ashwin opened the Gen-Next Cricket Institute in Chennai, India, aimed at nurturing young cricket talent. The institute has five main centers in Chennai, located at Loyola College, Pon Vidyashram, KRM Public School, APL Global School, and Sishya, along with additional branch centers across the city.
Endorsements:
Throughout his career, Ashwin also secured numerous brand endorsements, partnering with well-known names such as Myntra, Bombay Shaving Company, Manna Foods, Aristocrat Bags, Oppo, Move, Specsmakers, Zoomcar, Coco Studio Tamil, and Dream11.
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Karen Noronha is a versatile journalist with a passion for sports and K-pop. With over 7 years of experience at publications like IBTimes UK, DNA, and OTTPlay/DesiMartini, she seamlessly transitions between covering global athletic events and the dynamic world of K-pop.
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