Ashwin gets hero's welcome at home from family and friends

RAVICHANDRAN Ashwin, who took the cricketing world by surprise with his sudden retirement from international cricket, arrived in Chennai early morning on Thursday.

- ASHOK VENUGOPAL

Having quietly made his way to his house at West Mambalam after a long flight, the ace off-spinner was in for a surprise. Unbeknownst to him, Ashwin's family and friends handed him a surprise of their own, a grand reception. The entrance to his house was decked with flowers and a band was on site to offer him a hero's welcome. His family members, coaches welcomed him with sweets and garlands.

It was understandably an emotional moment for Ashwin's family. Patting Ashwin's back, his father, Ravichandran, could be seen planting a kiss on his son's cheek. His mother was also filled with emotions and had tears of joy. His wife and children, meanwhile, were visibly thrilled to have him back. He was given a traditional 'aarti' and 'tilak' before entering the house.