Indian left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja expressed his desire for off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin to achieve 500 Test wickets in the current match against England at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad.
Starting the Test with 490 wickets, Ashwin secured three wickets on the first day, matching Jadeja’s performance. With this display, Ashwin and Jadeja surpassed Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh’s combined total of 501 wickets in 54 matches, making them the most successful Test bowling pair for India.
Commending Ashwin at the conclusion of the first day’s play, Jadeja also shared thoughts on the off-spinner approaching the significant milestone of 500 Test wickets.
“It will be a big achievement if Ashwin completes 500 Test wickets and I hope he gets it in this match.”
“I am left with 25 wickets for 300 and it might take the whole series, but I wish Ashwin completes his 500 in this game itself and continues taking wickets for India,” Jadeja told JioCinema as per news agency PTI.
Opting to bat after winning the toss in the initial Test in Hyderabad, England posted a total of 246 runs in 64.3 overs. Ashwin secured 3 wickets for 68 runs, and Jadeja contributed with figures of 3 wickets for 88 runs. Left-arm spinner Axar Patel and Jasprit Bumrah also took two wickets each.
“I find great pleasure in bowling alongside Ashwin”- Jadeja
Explaining their partnership, Jadeja highlighted his camaraderie with the experienced off-spinner, expressing his enjoyment in bowling alongside Ashwin. He mentioned that the duo also appreciates the healthy competition between them.
“I really enjoy bowling with Ashwin, it is really helpful with two spinners bowling in tandem. We share a lot of messages around field setting, line and length and we are happy to contribute to India’s win. We really enjoy the competition,” the 35-year-old said.
In reply to England’s total of 246 all out in the first innings, India finished Day 1 at 119/1. Rohit Sharma got out for 24, but Yashasvi Jaiswal remained unbeaten with 76 off 70, and Shubman Gill (14*) was at the crease when play ended.
India will begin Day 2 trailing England by 127 runs, with nine wickets still in hand.
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