Former India cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has opened up about his conversation with outgoing chief selector Ajit Agarkar around the time of his retirement. Ashwin revealed that he had personally called Agarkar before announcing his decision to retire. According to Ashwin, Agarkar described it as a personal decision.

Ashwin also praised Agarkar for the way he handled his tenure as chairman of the selection committee, despite being one of the senior players who was phased out during his time in charge.

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Ashwin Recalls Conversation With Agarkar

Agarkar was at the helm of the selection committee during a period of transition in Indian cricket. Several senior players moved out of the setup during his tenure, including Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who announced their Test retirements.

Ashwin was also among the experienced players who brought their international careers to an end during this phase. He announced his retirement midway through the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, following the third Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane.

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The former spinner admitted that Agarkar had to take several difficult calls while managing the transition and said the job would not have been easy.

Ashwin Urges Players To See The Other Side

Ashwin also said players often look at selection decisions from a personal point of view. He believes it is important to understand the position of those making such decisions.

India's performance under Agarkar's tenure

Agarkar replaced Chetan Sharma as chairman of selectors in 2023 and remained in the role for nearly three years. During his tenure, India won two T20 World Cups and also secured the Champions Trophy title in 2025.