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India faces a significant setback in the ongoing third Test against England as Ravichandran Ashwin steps away from the match due to a family emergency. This development, announced shortly after the conclusion of the second day's play, comes at a critical juncture, especially after Ashwin's landmark achievement of securing his 500th wicket in Test cricket, a monumental milestone.
"Ravichandran Ashwin has withdrawn from the Test squad, effective immediately due to a family medical emergency," the BCCI said in a release on February 16.
"In these challenging times, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the team fully supports Ashwin.
"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.
Can Ravichandran Ashwin's replacement bat and bowl in Rajkot Test
Under the current regulations, India is not permitted to substitute Ravichandran Ashwin with another player in their playing XI, unless there is an agreement from Ben Stokes, the England team, and their management, particularly for a like-to-like replacement under exceptional and humanitarian circumstances.
The procedure for such a substitution involves the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) making a formal request to the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), which then needs to be discussed with England's team management. Following these discussions, any decision regarding Ashwin's replacement would require approval from the Match Referee.
Onus and Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav
The absence of Ashwin raises questions about India's ability to counter England's batting lineup effectively in the remainder of the Test. With Ashwin not available, the responsibility of leading India's spin attack falls on the shoulders of Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav, who will need to step up their game to fill the void left by Ashwin.
Ashwin completes 500 Test wickets
Day 2 of the Test in Rajkot saw Ashwin shine with both the bat and the ball, contributing significantly to India's innings. He was instrumental in a vital 77-run partnership with Dhruv Jurel, propelling India past the 400-run mark, with Ashwin adding 37 runs to India's impressive total of 445. On the bowling front, Ashwin played a crucial role in breaking the opening partnership between Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley, capturing a poorly attempted sweep shot by Crawley, thus achieving the remarkable feat of becoming the second Indian to take 500 wickets in Test cricket.
In response to India's formidable score, Ben Duckett's explosive century brought England to a strong position at 207/2 by the end of Day 2. Duckett's aggressive 133 not out off 118 balls showcased the 'Bazball' strategy in full force, reducing England's deficit to just 238 runs and setting the stage for an intriguing continuation of the Test match without Ashwin's presence.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
BIG BREAKING: Massive blow to India as superstar player pulls out of ongoing 3rd Test against England midway
IND vs ENG: Replying to India's 445, Ben Duckett's aggressive ton helps England dominate Day 2's play following Ashwin's historic 500
