Ravichandran Ashwin believes the future of Test cricket depends on making first-class cricket appealing enough for young players to pursue. On the Cricinfo Honours Awards 2026, Ashwin argued that the challenge of preserving red-ball cricket extends far beyond India.
What's at stake for Test cricket?
The format is facing a difficult phase, with India's Test side enduring consecutive home whitewash defeats to New Zealand in 2024 and South Africa in 2025.
Why it matters for Ravichandran Ashwin
Ashwin himself has stepped away from the format, leaving the team in a rebuilding phase under the leadership of Shubman Gill. The downturn has coincided with the exits of several stalwarts, including Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Cheteshwar Pujara.
What comes next for Test cricket?
Ashwin highlighted the need to make domestic red-ball cricket more rewarding for aspiring players. He noted that the demands of Test cricket go well beyond what fans see on the field, with physical and mental strain, extensive travel, and constant recovery.
Ashwin scored 3,503 runs at an average of 25.75, including six centuries and 14 half-centuries, with a highest score of 124. He claimed 537 wickets at an average of 24.00, registering 37 five-wicket hauls and eight ten-wicket match hauls.
The BCCI has made an attempt to revamp the salary structure, but Ashwin believes more needs to be done. He remains India's second-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket and is widely regarded as one of the finest spinners the country has produced.
Ashwin's comments come at a time when India's Test side is struggling to find consistency. The team finished 2-2 in a series draw in England, but has otherwise struggled in the longest format.
The loss to New Zealand was particularly significant, as it ended India's 12-year unbeaten streak at home. Ashwin's retirement has left a void in the team, and his comments highlight the need for urgent action to preserve the future of Test cricket.
Ashwin's achievements on the field are a testament to his dedication and skill. He has played 106 Tests, and his experience and insight are invaluable in understanding the challenges facing Test cricket.
The future of Test cricket remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: something needs to be done to make the format more appealing to young players. Ashwin's comments are a wake-up call for the cricket community, and it remains to be seen how the sport will respond to the challenges ahead.