Ravichandran Ashwin dedicates 500th Test wicket to his father

Ravichandran Ashwin scripted historical past by clinching his 500th Test wicket on Day 2 of the continued third match between India and England. The veteran spinner dismissed Zak Crawley to give India a much-needed breakthrough within the third session on Friday to enter the historical past books.

The 37-year-old all-rounder displayed his batting abilities by scoring essential 37 runs after which stole the limelight with Crawley’s wicket. Ashwin turned the one second Indian cricketer to declare 500 Test wickets after legendary Anil Kumble with the latter being current at Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium on Friday.

Ashwin additionally beat the likes of Kumble and Shane Warne to change into the second-fastest to file 500 Test wickets after Muthiah Muralidaran. After Day 2’s play, Ashwin shared his ideas on lastly reaching the 500-wicket mark and devoted the historic achievement to his father for displaying fixed assist all through his profession.

“It’s been quite a long journey,” Ashwin stated after Day 2’s play in Rajkot. “I’d like to dedicate this 500th wicket to my father. He’s been through the thick and thin of everything I’ve done in my life. He’s had heart attacks every time I’ve played. His health has gone for a toss because he’s watched games of mine on TV constantly and been a constant support for me. 500 wickets, done and dusted now.”

Meanwhile, England replied to India’s 445 by smashing 207/2 in simply 35 overs. Ben Duckett registered his maiden Test hundred in opposition to India by scoring 133* off simply 118 balls to put England in a dominant place. When requested about India’s response, Ashwin admitted that England have put the hosts below strain and added that Day 3 play will likely be vital. 

“The way England are playing, you’re not having to bowl a lot of overs. They’re showing a lot of intent, giving us less time to think and also less labour. You have to bowl good balls and expect one of those airy-fairy shots to go to hand. I expect this pitch to get really tough to bat, probably on day five. We need to hang in there. The game is hanging in the balance. Some things go our way tomorrow morning and we’ll find ourselves dominating. They’re putting us under pressure but it’s important to respond,” Ashwin added.