Former Indian all-rounder Ravi Shastri expressed admiration for off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, commending his impressive cricket journey. Shastri acknowledged Ashwin’s early recognition as a rising talent and lauded his significant role in India’s home Test victories. The fifth Test against England marked a milestone for Ashwin, making him the 14th Indian cricketer to reach 100 Test appearances.
With 507 Test wickets at an impressive average of 23.91, Ashwin has played a pivotal role in India’s home dominance, boasting 35 five-wicket hauls and eight 10-wicket match hauls. Beyond his bowling prowess, he has scored 3,309 runs, solidifying his status as a top-tier all-rounder in modern cricket.
In a video shared by the BCCI, Shastri likened Ashwin to an “astronaut,” highlighting his continuous skill improvement over time. Shastri expressed confidence in Ashwin’s capabilities, emphasizing the spinner’s natural aptitude for the game.
WATCH – Shubman Gill’s Spectacular Catch Removes Ben Duckett In Ashwin’s 100th Test
“It’s not often, you can say that about spinners but you knew very clearly, he would be the next. The astronaut that he is and the wavelengths he gets onto, comes naturally to him and you can see the skill factors just getting better and better,” Ravi Shastri remarked.
Ahead of the Dharamsala Test, Rohit Sharma also acknowledged Ashwin’s immense impact on Indian cricket. Sharma praised Ashwin as a match-winner, recognizing the spinner’s consistent contributions over the years.
“Big achievement for any player to play 100 Tests. He has been a match-winner for us. What he has done for us, no praise is enough. His performances over the last five or seven years, every series he has contributed. It is rare to have players like him,” Rohit Sharma commented.
ALSO READ: Dinesh Karthik Contemplates Retirement After IPL 2024 Stint With RCB
As India secured a 3-1 series lead, both teams have the opportunity to earn crucial World Test Championship points in the final Test. India, leading the standings, and England, positioned eighth, can earn 12 points for a win and four points for a draw. The match at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala is a chance for England to salvage pride under the leadership of Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum.
