Australian captain Pat Cummins has paid tribute to retiring Indian legend Ravichandran Ashwin after his “surprise” announcement after the third Test.

At the conclusion of a rain-affected clash at the Gabba, the 37-year-old revealed he had played his last game for India and would be bowing out from all three formats.

Ashwin finishes as the second highest wicket-taker for India, claiming 537 scalps during a career that spanned more than 130 Test matches.

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Speaking to media post-game, Cummins reacted to the decision from Ashwin and would describe him as “one of the all-time greats” of the sport.

“Bit of a surprise,” the skipper said.

“He has obviously been a fantastic player. There aren’t too many finger spinners who have that type of longevity and he will go down as one of the all-time greats.

“He was always a fantastic competitor, I had a lot of battles against him over the years.

“Massive respect from our changeroom to the career that he’s had.”

After the Brisbane fixture, a photo posted to social media showed both Cummins and teammate Nathan Lyon presenting Ashwin with a signed Australian shirt. 

Aussie fast-bowler Mitchell Starc also spoke glowingly about the off-spinner and admits Ashwin had been a tough player to compete against.

“It’s big news,” he told SEN Radio.

“His numbers speak for themselves. He’s been an incredible bowler for India for a long time, over 500 wickets. He’s always been a bit of a thorn in our side over in India and played a part in series here in Australia.

“It’s been a fantastic career and I’m sure it will be celebrated that way.”

Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar are expected to share the spin duties for the final two games of the series in Melbourne and Sydney.