India’s veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin recently etched his name into the record books when he became the second-fastest to accomplish the legendary milestone of 500 wickets in Test cricket. He achieved the feat in 98 Tests and his landmark came against England in the Rajkot Test. During the fourth Test against England, he weaved the magic with the ball and gave England batters a run for their money in the second innings.
He assessed the conditions before he troubled the English batters and deservedly bagged his 35th fifer in Test cricket. While he lost his sheen in the first innings as he took just one wicket, he made a stellar rebound in the second innings, dismissing the likes of Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ben Foakes and James Anderson. His bowling masterclass helped India skittle out England for a mere 145.
Ravi Ashwin reacts after Sunil Gavaskar wishes the off-spinner to lead India in the fifth Test
India were tasked to chase 192 and the hosts managed to get the job done as they won the game by five wickets and won the series by 3-1, with the fifth and final Test slated to be played on March 7. Meanwhile, former Indian cricketer, Sunil Gavaskar said he wishes Rohit Sharma would allow Ravi Ashwin to lead the team in his milestone Test match against England. Ravi Ashwin has played 99 Tests for India and has taken 507 wickets, the second-most by an Indian spinner in Tests after Anil Kumble (619 wickets).
“India win tomorrow and you go to Dharamsala. I just hope that Rohit allows you to lead the team out to the field when. That will be a wonderful gesture, wonderful honour for all that you’ve done for Indian cricket,” India’s batting maestro said after stumps on Day 3. Notably, India chased down 192 on Day 4 and won the series. While there are expectations already whether or not Ravi Ashwin will be given the captaincy to lead the team in the fifth Test, in a way of paying rich tribute for the legend’s services, Ashwin gave a classy reply to Gavaskar’s wish.
“Sunny bhai, you’re being too generous. Thank you so much. I have no expectations out of all these things. I think I’m well past all that but genuinely saying I’m enjoying every single moment that I am being with this team and the longer it lasts, I will be very happy,” replied Ashwin who said he has no expectations as he is enjoying every single moment of being with the team, which is all that matters to him.