Dealing a significant blow to the Indian Cricket Team, veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has withdrawn from the current ongoing third match against England.
On the second day of the third Test, Ashwin achieved a remarkable milestone by joining the exclusive 500 Test wickets club. Starting the match with 499 wickets, he dismissed Zak Crawley in the second innings to etch his name in history.
Ashwin’s accomplishment makes him the second-fastest player in Test cricket to reach this milestone. He is now the ninth bowler in Test history to surpass 500 wickets, and notably, the second Indian bowler after the legendary Anil Kumble.
During Day 2, Ashwin bowled 7 overs, conceding 37 runs while claiming a crucial wicket. In the first innings, he not only showcased his bowling prowess but also contributed with the bat, scoring 37 runs off 89 balls, including 6 fours. A pivotal moment came when he partnered with wicketkeeper-batsman Dhruv Jurel, adding 77 runs in 175 balls, putting England on the defensive. Ashwin’s all-around performance played a key role in India’s dominance in the match.
On Friday night, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) issued a formal statement, disclosing that the experienced off-spinner withdrew from the Rajkot Test during the match due to a family medical emergency.
“In these challenging times, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the team fully supports Ashwin.
“The BCCI extends its heartfelt support to the champion cricketer and his family. The health and well-being of the players and their loved ones are of utmost importance. The Board requests respect for the privacy of Ashwin and his family as they navigate through this challenging time.
“The Board and the team will continue to provide any necessary assistance to Ashwin and will keep the lines of communication open to offer support as needed. Team India appreciates the understanding and empathy of the fans and media during this sensitive period.”
Without the star off-spinner, India is set to field a team comprising 10 players and a substitute. Consequently, they’ll have to make do with only four bowling options in the ongoing match, and there are just two days left to strategize and prepare.
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