Ravichandran Ashwin made a significant mark in the ongoing fourth Test match (23 – 26 Feb, 24) between India and England in Ranchi’s second innings. Ashwin achieved a historic feat by dismissing England’s opener Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope in consecutive deliveries, surpassing Anil Kumble’s long standing record to become the highest test wicket-taker for the country on a prestigious list.
Ravichandran Ashwin added another significant milestone to his illustrious career just a week after reaching the milestone of 500 Test wickets. This achievement occurred during the ongoing fourth Test match between India and England at the Jharkhand Cricket Association (JCA) in Ranchi, where Ashwin continued to etch his name in the annals of Indian cricket history.
Following India’s conceding of a 46-run first-inning lead to England, despite a commendable 90-run performance by Dhruv Jurel and spirited batting from Kuldeep Yadav, captain Rohit Sharma promptly entrusted the new ball to Ashwin for the first time in the series.
Ashwin lived up to his captain’s trust, securing crucial wickets by dismissing the in-form Ben Duckett (15) and Ollie Pope (0) in consecutive deliveries. This pivotal performance propelled India into a favourable position as they strive to clinch the series victory, while the visitors are eager to level the series. Additionally, Ashwin later claimed the significant wicket of Joe Root, further strengthening India’s position.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s Remarkable Achievement
Ravichandran Ashwin achieved a historic milestone by surpassing Anil Kumble’s enduring record for the highest number of Test wickets at home. Kumble, who had claimed 350 out of his 619 Test scalps on home soil, played 63 Test matches in India during his illustrious career, amassing a total of 132 caps in the longest format.
Regarding Ashwin, he currently boasts 351 Test wickets in India. Out of his impressive total of 504 Test wickets, nearly 75% have been secured on home turf. Ashwin is currently participating in his 99th Test, with 59 of them being contested on home soil.
Discussing the ongoing match, England has made a swift beginning, with Zak Crawley aggressively challenging the Indian bowling unit, resulting in the visitors’ lead surpassing the 100-run mark.
India presently holds a 2-1 lead in the series, and the fifth Test is scheduled to happen in Dharamshala on March 7, marking Ashwin’s 100th Test for the Indian team.