Veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin recently announced his retirement from international cricket immediately after the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Brisbane. The move marked the end of a 14-year career and also replied to star batter Virat Kohli's heartfelt message. Ashwin ended 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. This shock announcement came during the post-match press conference when he summed up his career so far and the challenges he still needed to face. His decision came after playing such a limited role in the current series, with India's attention to prepare for an overseas tour of England. Long-standing teammate and close friend Kohli penned an emotional post on social media for Ashwin. Also Read | ICC Confirms Neutral Venues for India-Pakistan 2025 CT Matches Here is what Virat wrote for Ashwin on Twitter "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," Ashwin said in a message that attracted attention, as he said he would bat again with the 36-year-old batsman 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," Ashwin replied. Thanks buddy! Like I told you, I will be walking out with you to bat at the MCG🤗 https://t.co/ebM3j8PPrK — Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) December 20, 2024 The bond between the two was clear during the rain-interrupted final day of the Brisbane Test. Kohli and Ashwin were seen being in an emotional conversation inside the Indian dressing room. Kohli was also spotted wrapping his arm around Ashwin's shoulder and hugging him.