Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India’s premier spin bowlers, has consistently showcased his extraordinary talent by contributing both with the bat and the ball. His ability to score centuries while simultaneously taking five-wicket hauls in the same Test match has made him a unique asset for the Indian cricket team. Here, we explore four remarkable instances where Ashwin achieved this rare feat, highlighting his impact on the game.
1. 103 and 5/156 vs. West Indies – 2011
Ashwin first made headlines in his debut Test series against the West Indies in 2011. In the second Test at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, he scored a commendable 103 runs in the first innings, demonstrating his composure and skill at the crease. This century laid a solid foundation for India, allowing them to set a formidable total. However, it was with the ball that Ashwin truly shone, claiming 5 wickets for 156 runs. His all-round performance not only solidified his position in the team but also set the tone for a successful career ahead.
2. 113 and 7/87 vs. West Indies – 2016
Fast forward to 2016, Ashwin replicated his brilliance against the West Indies in the second Test at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata. He scored 113 runs, showcasing his batting prowess once again. His innings were marked by precision and aggression, helping India to a commanding position. With the ball, Ashwin was exceptional, taking 7 wickets for just 87 runs in the match. This performance was instrumental in India’s victory and reinforced Ashwin’s reputation as a genuine all-rounder.
3. 106 and 5/43 vs. England – 2021
The 2021 Test series against England saw Ashwin continuing his exceptional form. In the second Test at Chennai, he scored 106 runs, anchoring the Indian innings amidst challenging conditions. His century was a testament to his skill against one of the strongest bowling attacks. Furthermore, Ashwin’s bowling performance was nothing short of spectacular, claiming 5 wickets for 43 runs. His ability to turn the match in India’s favor highlighted his value as an all-rounder and his pivotal role in the team’s strategy.
4. 113 and 6/88 vs. Bangladesh – 2024
In 2024, Ashwin produced another historic performance against Bangladesh in the Test series. In the first Test, he scored 113 runs, once again displaying his remarkable batting talent. However, it was his bowling that captured the spotlight, as he took 6 wickets for 88 runs. This all-round performance not only contributed to India’s win but also marked a significant milestone in Ashwin’s career, showcasing his evolution as a cricketer capable of changing the course of a match with both bat and ball.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s ability to score centuries while taking five-wicket hauls is a rare achievement in cricket, underlining his status as one of the greatest all-rounders of the modern era. From his debut against the West Indies to his recent performances against Bangladesh, Ashwin has consistently delivered match-winning contributions, proving his worth time and again. As he continues to build on his legacy, cricket fans around the world eagerly await more memorable performances from this exceptional talent.
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