Ravichandran Ashwin delivered a standout performance in India 280-run victory over Bangladesh in the first Test of the series. The 38-year-old all-rounder notched his sixth Test century scoring 113 runs and then took six wickets in the second innings. This achievement brought him level with the legendary Shane Warne for the second-most five-wicket hauls in Test cricket history. As the team prepares for the second Test in Kanpur Ashwin is on the verge of setting six significant records. Here is a look at what he could achieve:
1. First Indian to take 100 wickets in the fourth innings of Test matches
Ashwin is already the leading wicket-taker in the fourth innings of a Test among Indians. just one more wicket in the fourth innings will make him the first Indian and sixth bowler overall to have picked up 100 wickets in the final innings.
2. Highest wicket-taker in India vs Bangladesh Tests
Ashwin needs just three more wickets to go past Zaheer Khan total of 31 wickets and become the bowler with the most number of wickets in Test matches played between India and Bangladesh.
3. Leading wicket-taker in World Test Championship (WTC) cycle 2023-25
Four more wickets would take Ashwin to 52 wickets and past Josh Hazelwood as the leading wicket-taker during the ongoing WTC cycle.
4. Second-most fifers in Test cricket history
Ashwin is currently level with Australian great Shane Warne in having the second-most five-wicket hauls in Test history, on 37. One more fifer would make Ashwin the clear second place.
5. Leading wicket-taker in WTC history
Ashwin needs eight more wickets to overtake Australian spinner Nathan Lyon as the highest-wicket taker in the history of the World Test Championship. Lyon is currently on 187 while Ashwin is second with 180.
6. Seventh-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket history
Nine more wickets would take Ashwin (522) past Lyon (530) for seventh spot in the all-time highest wicket-takers list in Test cricket. The second Test between India and Bangladesh begins on Friday, September 27.
R Ashwin Reveals Striking Chat With Wife That Led To Joke With Rohit Sharma
Ravichandran Ashwin continues to defy age playing a crucial role in India recent victory over Bangladesh in the first Test. At 38 he not only took six wickets but also scored a remarkable century showcasing his enduring prowess as the oldest member of the senior Indian squad.
In a reflective moment after the match, Ashwin shared insights on his YouTube channel about a conversation with his wife that made him realize just how long he has been thriving in international cricket. While watching match highlights his wife jokingly remarked. These off-spinners must be thinking When will he leave so we can get a break? This made Ashwin pause and reflect on his longevity in the game.
I felt a bit off when I realized I’m at that stage now,” he said acknowledging the many years he has played for India. It brings you back to reality. Everyone goes through that phase of wondering about their place in the team and looking back makes you appreciate your journey.
He also recounted a lighthearted interaction with Indian captain Rohit Sharma asking him when his birthday is. Ashwin who turned 38 on September 17 noted that Rohit is only a year younger. I saw a graphic that highlighted my age and suddenly realized I’m alone in that club. When I asked Rohit he mentioned his birthday is coming up and I joked that we’d be the same age for a while. With Rohit birthday on April 30 the two veteran players share a special bond as they navigate their cricketing careers. India next challenge comes with the second Test against Bangladesh in Kanpur starting September 27.
R Ashwin Honest Admission About India Teammate
At 38, Ravichandran Ashwin is approaching the upcoming long cricket season with a mindset that has evolved significantly over the past decade. After India victory over Bangladesh Ashwin acknowledged the challenges of the upcoming schedule. which includes nine more Tests until June 2025 potentially culminating in a World Test Championship Final. He emphasized the importance of taking it one match at a time rather than trying to fit the entire season into a single perspective.
It’s a long and tough season Ashwin told reporters. When you look too far ahead it can feel overwhelming specially with three to four months of cricket and ten Test matches ahead. I’ve learned that you need to stack it up one match at a time. He added that he had put in considerable work to prepare emphasizing the need to conserve energy and maintain reserves for the challenges that lie ahead.
The Chennai native highlighted the importance of using breaks between matches wisely to keep himself in peak physical condition. There are good breaks between games and I hope to use those windows to fine-tune my fitness he explained. For Ashwin physical endurance is crucial even more so than skill. It’s about being able to go through the season which is of utmost importance for me.
As part of his preparation Ashwin has adjusted his fitness routine. At 38, it’s different from being 35 You have to work twice as hard to earn your place he noted. Consequently he has reduced the intensity of his strength training and focused more on mobility and yoga. I’ve found it beneficial he added. Ashwin journey is often intertwined with that of Ravindra Jadeja his trusted partner in both bowling and batting for over a decade. In the recent Test while Ashwin shone with a century and six wickets Jadeja quietly made his mark with five wickets continuing to be a reliable support.
He been an inspirational figure Ashwin remarked about Jadeja. In recent years when he walks in to bat it brings a sense of calm in the dressing room. His evolution as a player and his contributions have been remarkable. Ashwin also praised Jadeja prowess on the field. He is like a fire on the field—energetic and dynamic. I admire him deeply and have learned to appreciate him even more over the past few years.
When it comes to competition between teammates Ashwin sees his relationship with Jadeja as a healthy rivalry that fosters mutual growth. It’s like a brotherly contest. When you’re in a race with your co-cricketers you want to outdo each other. But that competition eventually leads to admiration he said. I’ve come to accept that I can’t beat Jadeja I’m comfortable with that but I’m continually inspired by what he achieves.
Ashwin also expressed admiration for Rishabh Pant who recently marked his return to Test cricket with a century. Rishabh form and ability were never in question Ashwin stated. The way he is come back is nothing short of miraculous. I don’t think he felt any pressure during his comeback. Ashwin acknowledged Pant unique style saying, “He’s entertaining to watch though maybe not the most calming sight for those watching from the sidelines. But I believe he’ll only get better with time. He has the full backing of the team.
As Ashwin looks ahead to the second Test against Bangladesh in Kanpur starting September 27 his focus remains on continuous improvement and adapting to the demands of a grueling cricket season ready to embrace the challenges that lie ahead.
