R Ashwin reveals turning point of his career ahead of 5th Test against England, says 'There were talks of me getting dropped..'

Indian spinner R Ashwin has cited India's home series defeat to England in 2012 as the turning point of his, serving as a valuable lesson that spurred his rise in the longest format of the game. In the 2012 series against England, Ashwin was the fourth leading wicket-taker, yet he gave up 737 runs at an average of 52.64, with his best series performance being 3 for 80 as England's Alastair Cook and Kevin Pietersen heavily scored against him.

The series concluded with England winning it by 2-1, casting doubts on Ashwin's role in the team at the time. However, Ashwin swiftly solidified his position in the Test team and has since surpassed the 500-wicket milestone. Ashwin's comment came right ahead of the India versus England's fifth Test which is slated to start from March 7.

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2012 home series defeat to England was the turning point of Ashwin's career

During a press conference, Ashwin reflected on the 2012 series as an instrumental learning experience that highlighted the aspects of his game that needed refinement and adjustment.

"That series vs England at home, where Cook and Pietersen scored runs. Can well be the turning point for me. There were talks of me getting dropped. It was a wonderful lesson for me to improve say 5%. I knew what I had to correct. Since then, it was addressing downs," said Ashwin.

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R Ashwin on 100 Tests milestone

Ashwin stands on the brink of his 100th Test match, and he acknowledges the significance of this milestone.

"It's a big occasion, from the look and sound of it," said Ashwin," Ashwin remarked.

Ashwin's spin wizardry comes handy for India in Test series vs England

Expectations were high for Ashwin to excel in the series against England, but the beginning didn't align with expectations for the Indian spinner. Initially struggling for form, Ashwin made a remarkable comeback in the fourth Test. His exceptional performance in the Ranchi Test, where he secured his 35th career five-wicket haul, was instrumental in India clinching the series with a 3-1 victory. This achievement also brought him on par with Anil Kumble.

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