Ravichandran Ashwin’s love affair with the M A Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai is well-documented. However, his latest performance in the first Test against Bangladesh added another chapter to this storied relationship.
Ravichandran Ashwin Can Break Another Big Record In Kanpur
A Home Performance for the Ages
In what could potentially be his last Test appearance at home, Ashwin showcased why he’s considered one of the greats. He first rescued India with a crucial century in the first innings. This was not just any century; it was a match-defining knock that set the tone for the Test.
Spinning Victory from the Web of Defeat
Fast forward to the second innings, and Ashwin was back in his element. With the ball in hand, he spun a web around the Bangladeshi batsmen. His figures of 6/88 were instrumental in India’s 280-run victory, sealing his status as a match-winner.
A Record Breaker
Ashwin became the first player to achieve the dual feat of scoring a century and taking a five-wicket haul at the same venue for the second time. His previous such performance was against England in 2021, making Chennai a fortress of his achievements.
Joining the Legends
This Test marked the fourth instance where Ashwin combined a century with a five-wicket haul in the same match, positioning him second only to Ian Botham in this rare list of all-round feats. His teammate Ravindra Jadeja, along with cricketing legends like Gary Sobers and Jacques Kallis, share the third spot with two such instances.
Equalling Spin Greats
Ashwin’s 37th five-wicket haul equaled Shane Warne’s tally, highlighting his consistency and skill. With Muttiah Muralitharan leading with 67, Ashwin’s name is firmly etched among the best spinners in Test history.
The Fourth Innings Specialist
His performance added to his record of seven five-wicket hauls in the fourth innings of Tests, tying him with Warne and Muralitharan. Ashwin’s tally of 99 fourth-innings wickets now stands as the highest by an Indian bowler, surpassing Anil Kumble.
Climbing the Wickets Ladder
Ashwin’s 522 wickets in 101 Tests moved him past Courtney Walsh to the eighth spot in the all-time Test wicket-takers list. He now trails only Australia’s Nathan Lyon among active players, with an opportunity to overtake in the upcoming Test.
A Love Letter to Chennai
Ashwin’s record at Chennai is nothing short of phenomenal. With 36 wickets and two centuries in five Tests, Chennai has indeed been his personal playground. Reflecting on his performance, Ashwin expressed his delight, “Every time I play in Chennai, it’s an amazing feeling.”
Ravichandran Ashwin has the second most wickets by an active player in Test cricket.
Australia’s Nathan Lyon leads the list with 530 wickets and Ashwin can overtake him in the second Test in Kanpur.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s performance in Chennai wasn’t just about statistics; it was a masterclass in cricket, showcasing his unparalleled skill and love for the game. As he possibly bows out from Test cricket at his home ground, he leaves behind a legacy of brilliance and a story of sheer dominance, especially under Chennai’s skies.
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