BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla disclosed that Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin had to pull out of the Rajkot Test abruptly to attend to his unwell mother.
Ashwin achieved the milestone of 500 Test wickets on February 16, becoming the second Indian bowler and ninth overall to do so. He accomplished this feat by dismissing England opener Zak Crawley on Day 2 of the third Test in Rajkot.
On Friday night, the BCCI officially announced that the experienced cricketer had pulled out of the Rajkot Test immediately due to a ‘family medical emergency.’ Although the BCCI did not provide additional details about the emergency, the board’s vice-president Shukla shared the information on his X account.
“Wishing speedy recovery of mother of @ashwinravi99. He has to rush and leave Rajkot test to Chennai to be with his mother. @BCCI.”
https://x.com/shuklarajiv/status/1758551215003033652?s=46
The official statement from the Indian cricket board regarding Ravichandran Ashwin’s mid-match departure from the Rajkot Test stated:
“The BCCI extends its heartfelt support to the champion cricketer and his family. The health and well-being of the players and their loved ones are of utmost importance. The Board requests respect for the privacy of Ashwin and his family as they navigate through this challenging time.”
“The Board and the team will continue to provide any necessary assistance to Ashwin and will keep the lines of communication open to offer support as needed. Team India appreciates the understanding and empathy of the fans and media during this sensitive period,” the release added.
Previously, experienced Indian batsman Virat Kohli opted out of the five-match Test series, citing personal reasons. England’s Harry Brook also withdrew from the India tour, citing personal reasons.
In Ashwin’s absence, India relies on Kuldeep and Jadeja to play crucial roles
Ashwin reached his 500th Test wicket on Day 2 in Rajkot, and England had a strong beginning in reply to India’s 445-run first innings. They concluded the day at 207/2 after 35 overs. Opener Ben Duckett showcased an outstanding performance, scoring 133 off 118 balls with 21 fours and two sixes.
With Ashwin not playing, India looks to Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja to take on extra responsibilities in the spin department. On Day 2, Kuldeep conceded 42 runs in six overs without taking a wicket, while Jadeja had figures of 0/33 from four overs.
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