Ashwin bids adieu, Pujara, Smith, Pooran bow out too — and more legendary careers reach a finale

Ravichandran Ashwin revealed on Aug 26–27 that his IPL journey has ended, closing a 14‑season chapter and hinting at exploring overseas leagues and new roles next; fifth‑highest IPL wicket‑taker with 187 at 7.20 econ, two titles with CSK.

Cheteshwar Pujara announced on Aug 23–24 that he’s retiring from international cricket, signing off after 103 Tests built on grit, overseas epics, and clutch fourth‑innings stands;

Angelo Mathews’ plan to step away from Tests was confirmed and reiterated in late July–August coverage, over 7,000 Test runs, 13 tons, famed for 160 at Headingley 2014 sealing Sri Lanka’s historic series win, marking a phased red‑ball exit while keeping white‑ball options open.

Heinrich Klaasen’s decision, first announced in June, has been widely carried in August wrap‑ups; he shifts full‑time to franchise T20s after a powerful international stint. ODI 174 vs Australia 2023 and multiple T20 blitzes cemented his reputation as a power‑play finisher.

Nicholas Pooran’s June 9 announcement remains a headline in August lists, as the West Indies star focuses on global T20 leagues after a prolific white‑ball run. 118* off 55 vs Afghanistan (T20 WC 2024) and a 118 ODI best showcased his white‑ball explosiveness.

Steve Smith’s mid‑2025 ODI retirement continued surfacing in August trackers, signaling Australia’s one‑day reset while he remains active in other formats. 5,300+ ODI runs, 2015 World Cup semifinal/ final fifties, and a 164 vs NZ underline his one‑day pedigree.

Glenn Maxwell’s mid‑2025 ODI exit, highlighted again this month, underlines a pivot toward T20 roles and franchise commitments after a defining white‑ball career; record 201* vs Afghanistan (WC 2023) and 4 ODI tons reflect his game‑breaking finishing and part‑time spin value.