NEW DEHLI: Ravichandran Ashwin, now a member of the exclusive club of nine bowlers who have claimed 500 Test wickets, stands out not only for his bowling prowess but also for his remarkable batting abilities, boasting five centuries to his name.
At 37, Ashwin’s cricketing journey hints at an alternate reality where he could have focused solely on batting, potentially amassing over 10,000 Test runs. His recent milestone achievement comes amidst personal challenges, as he withdrew from the third Test against England due to a family emergency but swiftly returned to the squad.
Ashwin’s batting style is characterized by a silky touch and unwavering determination, as demonstrated in his memorable Test-saving partnership with Hanuma Vihari, despite enduring physical setbacks during the match.
Similarly, his bowling technique embodies a blend of artistry and aggression, blending classical principles with modern variations.
While Ashwin’s mastery of off-spin bowling places him in a league of his own, comparisons with other contemporary greats, such as Australia’s Nathan Lyon, persist. However, detractors often downplay his achievements, citing the majority of his wickets being taken in familiar home conditions.
Yet, within India’s rich tradition of off-spinners, including luminaries like Ghulam Ahmed, Erapalli Prasanna, Srinivas Venkataraghavan, and Harbhajan Singh, Ashwin’s unique blend of skills and intellect sets him apart. The fact that three of these off-spinners, including Ashwin, are qualified engineers perhaps underscores the correlation between discipline, intellect, and success in mastering the craft of spin bowling. Glenn McGrat, James Anderson, Stuart Broad and Courtney Walsh also achieved the milestone in the test cricket.
