Xtra Time Web Desk: Team India’s veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin entered into the record books by claiming 500 test wickets during the ongoing third test against England in Rajkot. Ashwin in his own words was an ‘accidental spinner’ as he bowled medium pace before switching to spin.
Ravichandran, the father of Indian cricketer Ashwin, shared that the suggestion for Ashwin to embrace spin bowling originated from his wife and Ashwin’s mother, Chitra. Ravichandran highlighted a crucial juncture in Ashwin’s career when he transitioned to off-spin, expressing gratitude to his wife for the decision. Ashwin faced health challenges at the time, including wheezing and knee issues, making the demands of running as a medium pacer arduous.
“It was Chitra who said, ‘why should you run so much. Just take a few steps and bowl spin,'” Ravichandran was quoted as saying in The Indian Express.
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Following his accomplishment of 500 Test wickets, Ashwin attributed his success to his father, acknowledging the profound impact he had on his life and cricketing journey. Expressing his appreciation, Ashwin stated, “I would like to dedicate this to my father; he’s responsible for everything I’ve done in my life. He’s lived it through and had heart attacks every time I’ve played. I think his health has gone for a toss because he’s watched games of mine on TV and been a constant support for me,” underscoring his father’s unwavering support throughout his cricketing endeavours.”
Ashwin achieved this milestone by dismissing England opener Zak Crawley during the second day of third Test at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot.
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