In a display of continued dominance, India’s premier off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin yet again displayed his prowess by dismissing the England Test skipper Ben Stokes in a stunning fashion during their latest encounter. This marked the twelfth time in Test cricket that Ashwin has got the better of Stokes, a testament to the spinner’s guile and expertise, particularly against this formidable opponent.
Ashwin’s latest triumph over Stokes unfolded on the second day of the nail-biting encounter. The incident occurred just before the completion of the 37th over. Ashwin, with lethal precision, bowled a delivery that would soon become a highlight of his illustrious career. Pitching it on middle stump, the ball took a drastic turn, outfoxed Stokes, and rattled into the off stump. As Stokes moved to block, the ball, carrying with it Ashwin’s hallmark spin, deceived the English captain and sealed his fate.
The ball’s turn was so sharp and sudden that Stokes, despite his anticipatory move forward, could not adjust to the deviant path in time. All he could do was stand and listen to the grim sound of the bails being dislodged, a testament to Ashwin’s skillful execution. This mode of dismissal projects Ashwin as a spinner who has unmistakably dominated Stokes in their face-offs on the cricket field.
Ashwin’s performance underscores his pivotal role in India’s bowling attack and reiterates why he is considered one of the finest off-spinners in the modern era of cricket. With Stokes added to his list of conquests once more, Ashwin’s reputation as a batter’s nightmare, particularly those who play from the left-hand side, is further solidified.
Stokes’ vulnerability to off-spin has been an ongoing narrative in his professional journey. While Ashwin claims the most dismissals against the English captain in Tests, Australian spinner Nathan Lyon also boasts a noteworthy record, having sent Stokes back to the pavilion on nine occasions. Not to be overlooked, Australian speedster Mitchell Starc has also dismissed Stokes the same number of times, reflecting the broad challenges Stokes faces against varied bowling attacks.
Despite the setback of losing their captain, England managed to recover from the precarious position thanks to a resilient partnership. Ollie Pope and Ben Foakes orchestrated a skillful counter-attack, putting together an impressive 112-run stand for the sixth wicket. Their efforts served to steady England’s innings and bring the game to a more competitive edge, ensuring that the Indian team would need to bat again in the Test match.
This contest showcased the depth and talent present in both teams. India, led by Rohit Sharma, featured a blend of seasoned players and dynamic newcomers, including Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill. The English side, with Zak Crawley and Joe Root, among others, presented a formidable opposition. Both teams’ playing XIs were supplemented by a bench strength comprising capable players poised to step up when called upon.
As the match progresses, with strategy and individual brilliance shaping the trajectory of the game, the contest between bat and ball continues to enthral cricket enthusiasts. Ashwin’s exceptional dismissal of Stokes will be recounted as a standout moment, and while England recalibrates and pushes forward, it serves as a reminder of the enthralling duels that define the spirit and excitement of Test cricket.
