'Will be walking out with you to bat at the MCG' - Ashwin hints at comeback with epic reply on Virat Kohli's congratulatory post

Veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin recently announced his retirement from international cricket immediately following the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Brisbane. The decision saw the end of a 14-year career and also replied to star batter Virat Kohli's heartfelt message.

Ashwin concluded his Test career as India’s second-highest wicket-taker with 537 wickets in 106 matches, behind only Anil Kumble. Ashwin’s contributions with the bat were immense including 3503 runs with six centuries, which established him as a dependable all-rounder.

His retirement announcement came as a surprise during the post-match press conference, where he reflected on his career and the challenges ahead. The news came after his limited role in the ongoing series, with India looking ahead to an overseas tour of England. Kohli, a long-time teammate and close friend of Ashwin, shared an emotional post on social media.

"I’ve played with you for 14 years, and when you told me today you’re retiring, it made me a bit emotional. Flashbacks of all those years playing together came to me. I’ve enjoyed every bit of the journey with you, Ash. Your skill and match-winning contributions to Indian cricket are second to none, and you will always and always be remembered as a legend of Indian cricket. Wish you nothing but the best in your life with your family and everything else that unfolds for you. With massive respect and lots of love, thanks for everything buddy," Kohli had written on for Ashwin in a heartfelt congratulatory message on X (formerly known as Twitter).

The spinner responded with a message that caught attention, as he spoke about returning to bat with the 36-year-old batter in the next Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground. "Thanks, buddy! Like I told you, I will be walking out with you to bat at the MCG," he replied.

The bond between the two was evident during the rain-interrupted final day of the Brisbane Test. Kohli and Ashwin were seen in an emotional conversation in the Indian dressing room. Kohli was also seen wrapping his arm around Ashwin’s shoulder and giving him a hug.