In a remarkable display of skill and endurance, Indian spin wizard Ravichandran Ashwin has eclipsed a long-standing record held by the legendary Anil Kumble during the second innings of the ongoing fourth Test match between India and England. Ashwin, a seasoned campaigner on the international scene, has been a cornerstone of the Indian bowling lineup for years, and his recent achievements have only further cemented his legacy in the annals of cricket history.
Ashwin’s journey to this milestone began in earnest during the third Test in Rajkot where he claimed his 500th Test wicket. His performance there was significant not only for the round number but also for the resilience he demonstrated; overcoming a family emergency that pulled him away from the ground for a day, Ashwin returned with vigour, undeterred, to help his side.
As the fourth Test unfolded, the Chennai-born off-spinner continued his momentum. After India’s innings concluded at a total of 307, Ashwin’s moment to shine arrived. England’s innings began, but not for long as the English batsmen soon encountered Ashwin’s guile. He swiftly dealt a double blow to the visiting team, first by removing opener Ben Duckett and then sending back Ollie Pope on the very next delivery – a feat that solidified his breaking of Kumble’s 16-year-old record.
With Pope’s dismissal, Ashwin’s tally of Test wickets on Indian soil rose to an impressive 351, allowing him to overtake Kumble’s haul of 350 wickets. This significant accomplishment not only showcases Ashwin’s dominance at home but also highlights the rarity of such achievements. With Harbhajan Singh trailing behind at 265 wickets and Kapil Dev at 219, Ashwin’s record stands as a testament to his skill and persistence.
To put Ashwin’s feat into a broader perspective, there are only a select few bowlers worldwide who have crossed the 350-wicket threshold in their home countries. Sri Lankan maestro Muttiah Muralidaran ended his career with an astonishing 493 wickets within the familiar confines of his nation, while England’s James Anderson is close to his 700th Test scalp and boasts 434 wickets at home. Further, Stuart Broad, who has called time on an illustrious career, gathered 398 wickets on English soil.
Currently 37 years old, Ashwin’s journey to this pinnacle has been one of relentless dedication and unparalleled consistency. He now finds his name being mentioned in the same breath as the stalwarts of the game, only the second Indian and ninth cricketer overall to breach the 500-wicket barrier in Test cricket.
Listed below are the top Indian wicket-takers at home, reflecting Ashwin’s primacy:
– Ravichandran Ashwin: 351 wickets* (Till his 2nd wicket)
– Anil Kumble: 350 wickets
– Harbhajan Singh: 265 wickets
– Kapil Dev: 219 wickets
– Ravindra Jadeja: 210 wickets* (Till 1st innings in 4th Test)
Ashwin’s recent feat also brings to light the longevity and fitness required to succeed at the international level, especially in the physically and mentally demanding world of Test cricket. His ability to adapt, innovate and outthink batsmen has been a hallmark of his brand of spin bowling, making him a valuable asset to the Indian cricket team across different formats.
With the ongoing Test certain to further unveil the unfolding story of a cricketing great, Ravichandran Ashwin continues to leave an indelible mark on the game. His journey has been inspirational, a fitting tribute to the art of spin bowling, and a testament to the legacy that one man can create through years of dedication to his craft. As India continues to establish itself as a stronghold in world cricket, Ashwin’s contributions remain a beacon of excellence and an enduring source of national pride.
