Ravichandran Ashwin, a seasoned stalwart of Indian cricket, has reached a significant milestone in his career: his 100th Test match for the Indian cricket team.
Joining a select group of just thirteen other Indian players, Ashwin’s journey to this achievement speaks volumes about his dedication, skill, and determination on the cricket field.
From his early days to now, he’s shown remarkable growth, becoming one of the best spinners globally.
With every game, he’s not only played but also reshaped the story of Indian cricket, leaving a lasting impression with his outstanding performances.
As he steps onto the field for his 100th Test, it’s not just a personal milestone; it’s a testament to his consistency and passion for the sport.
Ashwin’s influence extends beyond the boundary ropes, inspiring cricket lovers worldwide with his talent and resilience.
Ashwin’s journey is akin to a childhood dream come true. Initially aspiring to be a fast bowler, he now stands tall among spin bowling legends, having taken over 500 Test wickets.
His arsenal includes a variety of skills – drift, guile, undercutters, top spinners, and the mysterious carrom ball – all of which he uses to outwit batters with finesse. It’s a story that resonates with every Indian, showcasing determination, skill, and fulfilling a lifelong ambition.
Under the mentorship of Dhoni, Ashwin’s talent flourished.
His control over the new ball and his enigmatic style fascinated everyone in the camp. As his career progressed, he seamlessly transitioned into Test cricket, where he continued to excel with the new ball.
Ashwin’s ability to deceive batsmen and claim crucial wickets early in the innings solidified his reputation as one of the finest spin bowlers of his generation.
His journey from a white-ball specialist to a Test match maestro is a testament to his adaptability and skill.
Currently, Ashwin stands among the top wicket-takers with the new ball, a remarkable feat for a spinner. His achievement highlights the rarity and significance of spin bowling with the new cherry, a facet of the game that Ashwin has masterfully pioneered.
Spin bowling is a craft mastered by few, and Ashwin has demonstrated its intricacies time and again. From the slider that left Steve Smith bewildered in Delhi to exploiting extra bounce to dismiss him in MCG, Ashwin’s ability to deceive batsmen is unparalleled.
Whether it’s outsmarting a seasoned campaigner like Alastair Cook with classic off-spin on a chilly Birmingham morning or leaving De Kock stunned with an undercutter after three consecutive off-spin deliveries in Vizag, Ashwin’s repertoire knows no bounds.
With him, each dismissal is a testament to meticulous planning and strategic execution. Witnessing his celebrations after claiming a wicket is not just a victory, but a spectacle in itself, a testament to the artistry of spin bowling at its finest.
In Ashwin’s illustrious Test career spanning 100 matches, he’s amassed 516 wickets at an impressive average of 23.65. With 36 5-wicket hauls and 8 10-wicket hauls, he’s proven his prowess on the cricket field.
However, Ashwin’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges.
Despite being labeled as a specialist in spin-friendly conditions, often termed “dustbowls” by foreign media, he was often sidelined as a second-string spinner in SENA conditions. Consequently, he missed out on numerous tests away from home.
Yet, over time, it’s become evident that Ashwin’s skills aren’t confined to turning tracks.
He’s showcased his ability to excel in diverse conditions, whether claiming a 4-fer in Birmingham or swiftly picking up 2-3 wickets at MCG.
Ashwin’s versatility and resilience have cemented his status as one of cricket’s most formidable bowlers, capable of delivering under any circumstance.
ASHWIN TEST STATISTICS:
M: 100
RUNS: 3309
Batting average: 26.26
50/100: 14/5
HS: 124
Wickets: 516
Bowling average: 23.65
SR: 50.65
5-W: 36
10-W: 8
Ravichandran Ashwin’s impact on Indian cricket isn’t just about his bowling; he’s proven himself with the bat too. With over 3000 Test runs, including 5 centuries and 14 fifties, he’s a valuable contributor in every aspect of the game.
But what sets Ravichandran Ashwin apart isn’t just his stats; it’s his knack for making history.
He’s the only player to achieve a five-wicket haul in both his debut Test and his 100th Test, with identical figures of 9/126. From his debut in the Delhi Test in 2011 to his recent performance in the Dharamshala Test in 2024, everyone has seen Ashwin’s stature grow.
Yet, despite his success, Ashwin remains grounded.
The day before each game, he meticulously plans and strategies, aiming to outsmart his opponents. It’s this blend of skill, strategy, and determination that defines Ashwin’s remarkable career, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cricket history.
Reaching recently the milestone of 100 Test matches for India was doubtlessly,
a momentous achievement. It symbolised his dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the game.
For Ashwin, it’s a testament to years of hard work, sacrifice, and passion for cricket.
As he basks in the glory of this accomplishment, he deserves every applause and accolade that comes his way.
These moments are not just milestones in a career; they are memories to be cherished for a lifetime.
Ashwin can take pride in knowing that he has left an indelible mark on the rich tapestry of Indian cricket history, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
Ashwin’s recent comments shed light on his strategic mindset on the field. His desire to see Rahane at slips, Virat at short midwicket, and Pujara at leg slip speaks volumes about his meticulous planning while bowling.
Similarly, for every cricket enthusiast, the sight of Ashwin gripping the new cherry and unleashing his trademark undercutters is a spectacle to behold.
It’s a sentiment shared not just by Indians but by all who have had the privilege of playing alongside or against him.
Ashwin’s craft and finesse with the ball have garnered admiration and reverence from teammates and opponents alike, making him a true maestro of the game.
Image source– Twitter/X
