Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has once again taken the top spot in the test bowler’s rankings after an impressive nine-wicket performance during the final test against England last week. This achievement came during his 100th test match in Dharamsala, where he finished as the leading wicket-taker of the series with a total of 26 dismissals.
Ashwin also reached a significant milestone in his career during the third test in Rajkot, where he claimed his 500th test wicket. This remarkable feat helped him surpass his teammate Jasprit Bumrah in the rankings.
Following his stellar performance, Bumrah dropped to third place, with Australia’s Josh Hazlewood moving up to second place after taking six wickets in the second test against New Zealand. This marks the sixth time that Ashwin has reached the top spot in the rankings.
Throughout the series against England, Ashwin faced personal challenges as he temporarily left the Rajkot test to be with his ailing mother in Chennai. Despite this setback, he returned to the squad on day four of the match and continued to deliver exceptional performances on the field.
In a touching gesture, Ashwin expressed his gratitude towards India captain Rohit Sharma for allowing him to be with his mother during the test match. He praised Sharma for his leadership qualities and described him as a special person with a “golden heart.”
Reflecting on his bond with Sharma, Ashwin stated, “I’d give my life for him on the field, that’s the kind of captain he is.” This display of camaraderie and respect between the captain and the bowler has resonated with fans and fellow players alike.
As Ashwin celebrates his return to the top of the rankings, he continues to be a key player for the Indian cricket team, contributing his skills and experience to their success on the field. His dedication and perseverance have earned him accolades from fans and critics, solidifying his reputation as one of the premier bowlers in the world.
With his recent achievements and milestones, Ashwin’s legacy in the sport is being cemented, and his leadership both on and off the field is being recognized and appreciated by cricket enthusiasts globally. As he looks ahead to future matches and tournaments, Ashwin remains focused on delivering his best performances and making valuable contributions to the team’s success.
As the cricket world celebrates Ashwin’s accomplishments, his journey in the sport serves as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers and sports enthusiasts, showcasing the importance of hard work, dedication, and perseverance in achieving one’s goals and making a meaningful impact in the world of sports.
(Reporting by Amlan Chakraborty in New Delhi; editing by Christian Radnedge)
