AUS v IND: Ravichandran Ashwin Retires From Int. Cricket
The day 5 of the third test at the GABBA, Brisbane marked the end of an era for one of India’s most celebrated cricketers as Ravichandran Ashwin bid adieu to international cricket after India’s draw with Australia. It came after a heartwarming moment with former captain Virat Kohli when the two were seen embracing each other during a rain break on day 5 of the test match. Ravichandran Ashwin Announces His Retirement Ravichandran Ashwin, 37, did so in the post-match press conference with current India captain Rohit Sharma. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is now locked at 1-1 and the timing was after Ashwin’s test match participation in Adelaide, a fitting end to his 14-year career at the top-level of cricket. Ashwin’s Test Career In Pictures The Tamil Nadu spinner leaves India as one of its great cricketers, the country’s second-highest test match wicket-taker with 537 wickets in 106 test matches. Ashwin’s outstanding haul includes 37 five-wicket hauls that only Muttiah Muralidaran has beaten, with 67. Ashwin’s Impact Beyond Test Match Cricket Ravichandran Ashwin’s success is not limited to test match cricket alone. He was a central figure in India’s ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup winning campaign in 2011 and the ICC Champions Trophy 2013. Ravichandran Ashwin has featured for the Indian Cricket Team 287 times across all the formats since his international debut in 2010. Ashwin has taken 765 wickets in his career overall, the second-highest-ever for an Indian cricketer, behind only Anil Kumble, who tops the charts with 956 wickets. Ashwin Reigns In World Test Championship Ravichandran Ashwin is the most dominant in the WTC, where no one has outdone him. He became the first bowler to reach 100 WTC wickets and is now the highest wicket-taker in the competition, with 195 wickets from 41 matches. Ahswin’s record remains unmatched and Australia’s Nathan Lyon, who has taken 190 wickets, is in a close second. Ashwin’s Future In Franchise Cricket Despite retiring from international cricket, Ravichandran Ashwin is expected to remain active in franchise cricket. Ashwin recently made a big splash in the Indian Premier League (IPL) by securing a lucrative Rs 9.75 crore deal with Chennai Super Kings in the IPL 2025 Mega Auction, marking a return to the franchise where he kickstarted his IPL career. Ashwin’s Legacy Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement from international cricket marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in Indian cricket. Ashwin will be remembered for his sharp cricketing intellect, tactical acumen and relentless dedication. Ashwin’s legacy will inspire generations to come and his contribution to Indian cricket, particularly in the spin department, remains monumental. Ashwin’s name will be etched in the annals of the game’s history. As Ravichandran Ashwin retires, do you think he was the greatest spin-bowling all-rounder Indian ever had? The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Matthew Wade Retires With Memory Of 3 Scoops
As Matthew Wade retires, let’s take a moment back into 2021. Who can forget Matthew Wade hitting a heroic knock that bailed out his teammates during the 2021 T20 World Cup in Adelaide against Pakistan? His three scoops off Pakistan spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi in the final over, however, showed nerve and skill and commitment that were characteristic of a celebrated career that has lasted 13 years. Wade Turning The Tide With Stoinis It was one of those nights that Wade would never forget. Australia was chasing 177. With the wickets falling in regular intervals, the pressure mounted. With 50 runs needed off the final four overs, Wade joined Marcus Stoinis in the middle. The two all-rounders took on Pakistan’s best bowlers and delivered a masterclass in chase-building under pressure. But it was Wade’s fearlessness against Afridi in the 19th over that etched his name into T20 folklore. The Three Scoops That Shocked Pakistan Needs 20 runs from the last two overs and Wade brazenly launched three consecutive scoops for sixes, each more outrageous than the last. First, he stepped out of his stumps to Afridi’s full-length delivery and moved across the wickets, exposing the stumps behind him. He timed the shot beautifully, taking it over fine leg. Afridi went back a fraction in length, but Wade had anticipated that as well. The second six had him on top of the bowler, scooping again effortlessly. In the third six, Australia had sealed a final ticket, with Wade finishing off the match with a style that sent both Pakistan and their supporters to stunned silence. Wade & His Resilience From this single over, Wade got Pakistan out and proved how his career had changed his journey from a utility wicket-keeper batsman to match-winner one. It was the career summit where persistence, strength and the courage at the right moment marked Wade’s passage. In some ways, Wade’s whole journey tells of his spirit of fight—a player for every role and challenge as he gripped it in grit and audacity. The Legacy of a Fearless Cricketer As Wade leaves international cricket, three scoops against Shaheen Afridi in 2021 will go down in the annals of Australian T20 history, never to be forgotten by fans. The knock epitomized his career: gritty, relentless and ultimately, victorious. His legacy will inspire future generations to play fearlessly, with belief and resolve, just like he did on that magical night in Dubai. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
India’s First Female Olympic Gymnast, Dipa Karmakar Bids Adieu To Sport.
Dipa Karmakar, the first female gymnast from India to compete in the Olympics, has announced her retirement from the sport at the age of 31. She made the announcement on social media platform X. Dipa Karmakar’s Achievements International fame came to Dipa Karmakar’s way after she had a four-place finish in vault at the Rio Olympics 2016 and was just 0.15 points away from a medal. Challenges that emerged included doping suspension, apart from multi-injuries and milestones crossed in the career included becoming the first Indian to win the gold at Asian Championships in Tashkent in May. Dipa’s Departure Dipa Karmakar had to leave gymnastics eventually; she thought a lot about this and, with much effort, decided that it would be a difficult yet good time to leave. Karmakar thanked every experience-high and low points throughout 25 years of her career. Dipa Showed Gratitude Dipa thanked her family and coaches, Bishweshwar Nandi and Soma Nandi, who stood with her throughout her journey. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Antoine Griezmann Bids Adieu After Glorious Spell with France
French football icon Antoine Griezmann, a thorn in the flesh of the opposition for nearly a decade, on Monday announced his retirement from international football. The Atletico Madrid striker bows out of Les Bleus after an illustrious career that saw him amass 137 caps and score 44 times in national colors. World Cup Glory in 2018 An overall World Cup success acted as the ultimate glory for Griezmann, as he marshaled France to the World Cup after conquering Croatia 4-2 in the final in Russia. But apart from the World Cup, Griezmann also played a key role in the realization of the victory of France’s 2021 UEFA Nations League victory after they uprooted Spain 2-1 in a summit clash thriller. A Decade of Continuity Coming through the ranks, Griezmann wore the jersey at every level – from U-19 to U-21 and the senior side. This served as his first appearance for the senior side, playing a friendly against the Netherlands on March 5, 2014. On that date, he would become probably France’s most dependable player over the next decade; that is underlined by his all-time record of playing for Les Bleus in 84 consecutive games. End Griezmann has played out the last chapter of this magnificent career that France has ever seen, and he was the last one to bring about the era of amazing consistency, determination and success on the international level. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
West Indies’ Shannon Gabriel Calls Time on International Cricket After 12-Year Career
Shannon Gabriel, the imposing West Indies fast bowler, has confirmed his retirement from international cricket after a glittering 12-year career. The 36-year-old, who made his debut in 2012, had featured in 59 Test matches, 25 ODIs, and two T20Is, snaring 202 wickets in the process. Gabriel Reflects on His Career An emotional Gabriel took to Instagram on Wednesday to say: “During the past 12 years, I have dedicated myself to playing international cricket for the West Indies. Playing this beloved game at the highest level has brought me immense joy, but as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end. Today, I am announcing my retirement from International cricket.” Imposing Presence in Test Match Cricket known for his imposing height and raw strength, Gabriel went about making his mark on Test cricket. His best performance came in June 2018 when he picked up 13 wickets for 121 runs against Sri Lanka-ranking as the fourth-best match figures for a West Indian fast bowler. Comparisons with West Indies legends Patrick Patterson and Ian Bishop were warranted with his performances. Career Highlights and Challenges By 2017, though Gabriel had consolidated his position, there were no easy miles that came his way. He had his share of highs and lows-from being in the thick of action in that famous West Indies win over England at Headingley to the notorious dismissal in a Test match against Pakistan. The paceman received a four-match ODI ban in 2019 for using a homophobic remark against England captain Joe Root, which he later admitted was blown out of proportion. Final appearances and domestic cricket Gabriel last played for West Indies in July 2023, though has continued to remain involved in domestic cricket, turning out for Trinidad and Tobago, and once more in the Abu Dhabi T10 league in 2022. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Dawid Malan Says Goodbye, Gracefully
David Malan, born on September 3, 1987, in Roehampton, London, is a left-handed batsman known for his versatility across all formats of cricket. He first made waves in T20 Internationals debuting for England in 2017, where his consistent performances quickly earned him the top spot in the ICC T20I rankings. Malan – The Mr. Dependable Of T20I’s Malan’s ability to score rapidly and anchor innings has been pivotal in England’s T20 successes including holding the record for the fastest century by an Englishman in this format. Reflecting his approach to the game, Malan once said that “I’ve always felt that if you have the right mindset and you prepare well, you give yourself the best chance of performing.” A Powerhouse In T20I’s In T20 internationals, Malan has scored 1,751 runs at an average of 40.25, with a strike rate of 137.63. His standout performance came with a rapid 48-ball century against New Zealand in Napier showcasing his ability to score quickly and effectively under pressure. His impressive performances in the shortest format made him a key player for England’s T20 side. Malan’s ODI Career In addition to his T20 success, Malan has also made his mark in One Day Internationals and Test matches, debuting in both formats in 2017. In One Day Internationals, Malan has accumulated 1,315 runs at an average of 38.55. His ability to build innings and play crucial knocks has been a valuable asset to the team. Malan’s consistent run-scoring in ODIs reflects his adaptability and skill in the 50-over format. Malan’s Test Match Heroics In Test cricket, Malan has scored 1,717 runs at an average of 33.67. His solid technique and ability to play long innings have contributed significantly to England’s Test matches. Despite the challenges of the longer format, Malan’s performances have shown his capability to compete at the highest level . His most notable Test Match performance was a century in the 2017-18 Ashes series in Australia. With over 60 T20Is, more than 20 ODIs and over 20 Test matches under his belt Malan’s ability to adapt to different formats has made him a crucial part of England’s batting lineup. Known for his calm demeanor and reliable performances, he has been a key player for England on the international stage. Overall Dawid Malan’s cricketing career highlights his versatility and skill across different formats. His contributions with the bat have been crucial for England and his ability to perform under pressure continues to make him a valuable player. Malan’s impressive track record and stylish play remains an integral part of England’s cricketing success. Malan surely will be missed as he draws curtains to his cricketing career. The Sportz Planet Desk,Nitya Sutrave
Shikhar Dhawan Retires: Top 5 Knocks Of Gabbar In International Cricket
Very few cricketers evoke the same flair and tenacity as Shikhar Dhawan. Fondly nicknamed “Gabbar,” Shikhar Dhawan’s career has spanned a decade and is a story of grit, elegance, and an undying love for the game. His journey from the dust-bowl grounds of Delhi to the pinnacle of international cricket shall be remembered not only for the runs he scored but also for the style in which he played the game—always with an infectious smile and an aggressive yet graceful style. On the day Shikhar Dhawan announced his retirement from international cricket, what needed to be done was to turn back and see those innings which shaped his legacy. Be it his dazzling debut or the match-winning performances in high-pressure games, Dhawan’s career forms a collection of iconic moments forever etched in the memory of cricket fans globally. Here, revisit five of his most memorable innings that define his contribution to Indian cricket. 1. Debut – 187 vs Australia, 2010 Dhawan’s Test debut against Australia was nothing short of spectacular. Facing a formidable Australian bowling attack, the Delhi-born cricketer announced his arrival with a breathtaking 187, setting the record for the highest score by an Indian on Test debut. His innings was adjudged to be an exemplary combination of confidence and skill which put his skillful abilities with the bat in the limelight and scripted the foundation for India’s victory. This knock not only secured the victory but was also a starting point in Dhawan’s journey as one of the pivotal figures in the Indian batting line-up. 2. Champions Trophy 2013 – 137 vs England The situation was clear: any runs would count in the ICC Champions Trophy final in 2013. That 137 for Dhawan was of paramount importance in the context of India’s chase. His association with Virat Kohli turned out to be the deciding factor, and his ability to perform under pressure earned him the Player of the Tournament award. This knock testified more to his ability to rise to any situation and play match-winning innings whenever it really mattered. 3. ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 – 137 vs South Africa One of Dhawan’s most memorable innings was saved for a strong South African bowling attack during the 2015 ICC World Cup. His 137 off 146 balls helped India post a challenging total and secure a crucial win against one of the tournament’s top contenders. Playing in Melbourne, Dhawan’s knock broke India’s jinx against South Africa in World Cups and proved he can perform on the biggest stage. 4. India’s Tour Of Sri Lanka 2017 – 190 vs Sri Lanka Dhawan’s 190 off 168 balls against Sri Lanka during the Galle Test was an example of his attacking bent of mind in the game’s longer format. His blistering innings set up the scene for a comprehensive Indian victory, underlining his reputation as one of the most dangerous batsmen in the team. This aggressive and incisive knock would go a long way in proving that Dhawan has the mettle to dominate any bowling attack in any format. 5. West Indies Tour Of India 2018 – 190 vs West Indies When Dhawan needed reaffirmation in his Test career, he came up with a masterclass in the form of a knock of 190 against the West Indies in Rajkot. Runs came both in terms of elegance and power, as Dhawan’s innings saw him hit 26 fours, proving very crucial to India’s victory. This not only reinstated his place in the Test team but also proved that Dhawan could adapt and do well in any situation. As Shikhar Dhawan walks into the sunset of international cricket, it will be recalled not only for the runs he scored but also for the manner in which he played the game—being infectious with his smile, fearless in his approach, and always rising to the occasion. His legacy thus is one of flair, resilience and rising to an occasion with what looked like never-say-die attitude—his contribution to Indian cricket, in general, cannot be belittled. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Gabbar Calls Time On His Cricketing Career
Shikhar Dhawan, one of India’s most celebrated cricketers, announced his retirement from international cricket after a glorious 14-year stint. The 38-year-old left-handed opening batsman took to social media on Saturday morning, 24th August, 2024 to share the news, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by cricket fans worldwide. Retirement Announcement “It’s important to turn the page to move forward in life and that’s why I am announcing my retirement from international and domestic cricket,” Dhawan said in a video posted on his social media accounts. “I am leaving with peace in my heart that I played so long for India. I’ve told myself don’t feel sad that you won’t play for India anymore, but feel happy that you played for the country.“ Dhawan’s Final Appearance Dhawan last played competitive cricket in April 2024, turning out as the captain for Punjab Kings in the IPL. Across his international career, he compiled 24 centuries from 269 matches—17 in ODIs and seven in Tests—cementing his status as a modern-day great of the limited-overs format. Dhawan – A Modern Day Great Known for his consistency in ODIs, Dhawan retires as one of only eight players in the format’s history to score more than 5000 runs at an average of plus 40 with a strike rate above 90. Among Indians, he shared the feat with Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Dhawan had last represented India in the ODI series against Bangladesh in December 2022. Dhawan’s Test Debut While Dhawan made his mark across all formats, it was his ODI performances that really set him apart. His journey to international stardom began with a sensational Test debut against Australia in Mohali in 2013, where he smashed an 85-ball century—the fastest by a Test debutant—and went on to score 187 runs in a match-winning effort. The Real ‘GABBAR’ Of The Champions Trophy Dhawan’s most prolific year came in 2013 when he scored 1162 runs in ODIs at an average of 50.52 and a strike rate of 97.89. The crowning moment of that year was his outstanding performance in the Champions Trophy, where he scored 363 runs in five innings with two hundreds, which piloted India to victory. This was the start of a potent opening partnership with Rohit Sharma, which, for now, is the fourth-best in ODI history and second-best for India, sitting only behind the legendary opening pair of Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly. Key Contributions Over the next couple of years, Dhawan continued to excel in multi-team tournaments, topping the charts as India’s highest run-scorer in the 2014 Asia Cup, World Cup 2015, Champions Trophy 2017, and Asia Cup 2018. Thereby, pressure handling developed into his key asset in an India ODI setup. Injury Setback During the 2019 World Cup Dhawan’s ODI career was put on the brakes in 2019 when he got injured on the thumb during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 in England just after scoring a century against Australia at The Oval. Despite the setback, Dhawan’s contributions were recognized as he was entrusted with captaincy duties for India’s second string sides in the latter half of his career. Gabbar Belting It In The IPL Dhawan has had some success in IPL teams like Delhi Capitals, Mumbai Indians, Deccan Chargers, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Punjab Kings. Currently, he is the second-highest run-scorer in IPL history, just a run behind Virat Kohli, with 6769 runs from 221 innings, at a strike rate of 127.14. Dhawan’s Domestic Dominance But apart from his international and IPL exploits, Dhawan has also been an important domestic cricketer. He was a part of Delhi’s Ranji Trophy-winning team in the 2007-08 season, while at the Under-19 World Cup in 2004 he was the top run-scorer for India. Farewell to a Legend As Dhawan retires from international cricket, he leaves behind a legacy of being one of India’s greatest ODI players. What he has accomplished as a player and as a leader is for eternity, and the fans will always remember his fearless batting and trademark celebrations. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
List Of Accolades Vinesh Phogat Won Over Her Wrestling Career
Vinesh Phogat announced her retirement from the sport after a glorious campaign spanning over a decade. The 29-year-old declared it on social media after she exited the Paris Olympics 2024 due to disqualification for missing weight before the gold medal bout. But even with that Olympic heartbreak of 2016, Vinesh leaves you with a series of scintillating achievements under her name. She is now considered one of the greatest-ever wrestlers produced by India: the first Indian woman to fight in three Olympics, the first to make an Olympic final, and the first to win gold at the Asian Games. She is also India’s only female wrestler with more than one world championship medal. Olympics 2024 Paris Olympics – Final (50kg) Vinesh’s campaign at the 2024 Paris Olympics was nothing short of dramatic. She made it to the final following a thrilling 3-2 win over reigning Olympic champion Yui Susaki of Japan making it her first loss after a streak of 84 consecutive matches. She then beat both Oksana Livach and Yusneylys Guzman to become the first-ever Indian woman to make the final of an Olympic wrestling event. But on the day of the final, she was disqualified for failing to make the weight. 2020 Tokyo Olympics – Quarterfinal (53kg) Vinesh Phogat was seeded as the world number one for the Tokyo Olympics but fell to a bitter defeat in the quarterfinal at the hands of Belarus’ Vanesa Kaladzinskaya, a two-time world champion who later took bronze. 2016 Rio Olympics – Quarterfinal: 48kg Vinesh Phogat made her Olympic debut in Rio at 21 years of age. She was participating in the 48kg category, and during the quarterfinal match against China’s Sun Yanan, she suffered an ACL tear that forced her to withdraw from the event. She got the prestigious Arjuna Award later that year. World Championships 2022 Belgrade Worlds – BRONZE (53kg) Vinesh Phogat won a bronze at the World Championships in 2022 after losing the semifinal to eventual silver medal winner Batkhuyagiin Khulan of Mongolia in the first round. She won the repechage clearing two-time European champion Jonna Malmgren of Sweden. 2019 Nur-Sultan Worlds – BRONZE (53kg) Her 2019 World Championships bronze came after a defeat to Japan’s Mayu Mukaida, herself a three-time world champion and Tokyo gold medallist. Vinesh Phogat sealed her place on the podium by beating Paris gold medallist Sarah Hildebrandt and three-time worlds medallist Maria Prevolaraki of Greece in the repechage. Asian Games 2018 Jakarta – GOLD (50kg) It was also at the 2018 Asian Games where Vinesh Phogat avenged her Rio Olympics loss by defeating Sun Yanan in the Round of 16. She went on to win gold after defeating two-time Asian champion Yuki Irie, thus becoming the first Indian woman wrestler to win gold at the Asian Games. 2014 Incheon – BRONZE (48kg) At just 20 years old, Vinesh Phogat bagged a bronze medal at the 2014 Asian Games and became the third Indian woman to do so. She won the bronze through the repechage route after having lost to the three-time world champion and reigning Rio Olympics gold medallist Eri Tosaka of Japan. Commonwealth Games 2022 Birmingham – GOLD (53kg) From the heartbreak of Tokyo and a subsequent fall-out with the Wrestling Federation of India, to Vinesh Phogat bouncing back at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, becoming the first Indian woman to win three CWG golds. 2018 Gold Coast – GOLD (50kg) Phogat was making a stunning comeback from her Rio injury after winning all her bouts, bring home gold in the 2018 Commonwealth Games. 2014 Glasgow – GOLD (48kg) Vinesh Phogat’s first big win on the international circuit came at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, where she won gold a month shy of her 20th birthday. Brilliant Asian Championship Performances Vinesh Phogat has been a consistent performer at the Asian Wrestling Championships and won medals in every edition that she participated. Her personal medals include four bronze medals (2014, 2016, 2019, 2020), three silver medals (2015, 2017, 2018) and a gold medal in 2021. Personal Accolades and Legacy Phogat is widely recognized for her contributions in the field of wrestling. In 2019, she became the first Indian to be nominated for the Laureus World Sports Award and for the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year in 2022. Vinesh was conferred with the Arjuna Award in 2016 and the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna in 2020. She returned both these awards in 2023 during the wrestler protests. With the retirement of Vinesh Phogat, one great career in Indian wrestling finally comes to an end. Her journey was one of resilience, perseverance, and unparalleled success. The type of legacy she will leave behind will motivate generations of wrestlers when she steps away from the sport. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
“Alvida Kushti” Says Vinesh Phogat After Olympic Disqualification
Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat announced her retirement from the sport through an emotional social media post. The 29-year-old, who was bound to compete for the 50kg gold medal bout, revealed her decision after dramatic events unfolded when she was ruled out of contention at the Paris Olympics 2024 due to an overweight of 100 grams. A Tearful Goodbye Having made history by becoming the first Indian woman wrestler to enter a gold medal bout in her category, Phogat expressed deep disappointment. In a message to her mother, Premlata, Phogat wrote, “Ma, wrestling has won, I have lost. Please forgive me, your dreams and my courage, everything is broken. I don’t have any more strength now. Goodbye wrestling 2001-2024. I shall be indebted to you all. Forgive (me),” Phogat, a two-time world championship bronze medalist, has now retired from wrestling. Phogat’s Disqualification The disqualification came barely minutes before the final contest Wednesday, with Phogat way above her category’s limit. Severe dehydration—in the wake of extreme measures taken to make the weight in, including fasting and without fluids all day, and staying awake all night—saw her spend much of the day at a polyclinic inside the Games village. Appeal and Legal Proceedings Phogat had appealed CAS to turn her disqualification into a joint silver medal with Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, who took her place in the final bout against American Sarah Ann Hildebrandt. Hildebrandt went on to win that bout and take the gold medal. The appeal of Phogat was to be heard in the next few hours by the ad-hoc division of CAS set up in Paris for disputes arising from the Olympic Games. Phogat’s Legacy Phogat has had a career resonating with gold medals in Asian and Commonwealth Games and has been one of the icons in wrestling. Her recent efforts also include spearheading protests against former Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, accused of sexual harassment. Vinesh Phogat’s retirement brings curtains on one of the remarkable journeys as a three-time Olympian and the trailblazer of Indian women in wrestling. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
