Muttiah Muralitharan expressed his admiration for R. Ashwin following the latter’s retirement announcement from international cricket after the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy ended in a draw due to rain. Muralitharan emphasised that achieving 500 Test wickets is an extraordinary feat. He acknowledged Ashwin’s impressive record of 537 wickets in 106 matches, noting that he ranks as India's second-highest wicket-taker, just behind Anil Kumble.
He pointed out Ashwin's unique journey, highlighting that he initially began his career as a batsman before recognising the need to shift his focus to bowling to fulfil his potential. Muralitharan praised Ashwin's courageous decision to make that transition, remarking that reaching such a milestone in Test cricket is no simple task.
Having retired with 800 wickets himself, Muralitharan shared that he had observed Ashwin closely and viewed him as an eager learner. He recalled how Ashwin would seek advice and ask insightful questions, a trait that set him apart from others.
He underscored Ashwin's continuous desire to learn, noting the variations he developed throughout his career as evidence of his commitment to improvement. Muralitharan concluded by expressing pride in Ashwin’s achievements, stating that retiring as India’s second-highest wicket-taker is a monumental accomplishment, one that brings pride to Tamil Nadu and the entire nation. He extended his best wishes for Ashwin's future endeavours post-retirement.