In a significant development from Rajkot, Dinesh Karthik has revealed a unique exemption granted to Ravichandran Ashwin by the umpires in the ongoing third Test between India and England. Ashwin, who had to withdraw temporarily from the match at the Niranjan Shah Stadium to attend to a family emergency, will be allowed to return to bowling immediately upon his comeback, bypassing the usual mandatory waiting period.
Typically, cricket rules stipulate that a player must spend an equivalent amount of time on the field as they have off it before being allowed to participate again in batting or bowling. This rule ensures fairness in play but can affect a team's strategy if a key player is forced to leave the field.
Karthik, providing commentary during Day 3 of the match, announced this exceptional decision, highlighting the understanding and flexibility of the match officials in dealing with Ashwin's personal situation. The ace spinner had bowled on Day 2 but made the difficult decision to step away from the match to be with his family.
This exemption is a rare occurrence in the sport, showcasing the empathy and support within the cricketing community for personal and family matters. Ashwin's return to the field without the customary waiting period will undoubtedly boost the Indian team's morale and strategy as they continue their battle against England in this crucial Test match.
Ravichandran Ashwin completes 500 wickets in Tests
India's seasoned off-spin maestro Ashwin etched his name in the annals of cricket history on February 16, in Rajkot, achieving a monumental milestone in his illustrious Test career. Ashwin, renowned for his spin wizardry, ascended to the elite club of bowlers by capturing his 500th Test wicket, positioning himself as the second Indian ever to reach this prestigious mark. This remarkable feat was accomplished during the third Test against England, where opener Zak Crawley became his milestone victim, thanks to a catch by Rajat Patidar in the 14th over.
Ashwin notches 500 Test wickets milestone in quick time
Ashwin's journey to 500 wickets unfolded in just 98 Test matches, making him the second-quickest to this landmark in the history of Test cricket, trailing only the iconic Muttiah Muralidaran of Sri Lanka, who reached the milestone in 87 Tests. This places Ashwin in the company of cricketing legends such as Anil Kumble, Shane Warne, and Glenn McGrath, underscoring his exceptional skill and consistency over the years.
Moreover, in terms of deliveries, Ashwin proved his efficiency by becoming the second-fastest bowler to achieve 500 Test wickets, requiring 25,714 deliveries, a testament to his persistence and strategic mastery on the field, with only McGrath ahead of him.
Currently, among active cricketers, Ashwin stands as the third-leading wicket-taker, trailing behind the indomitable James Anderson, who is nearing the 700-wicket mark, and Australia's Nathan Lyon, who has accumulated 517 wickets in 127 Tests.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
IND vs ENG: Can Ravichandran Ashwin's substitute bowl and bat during 3rd Test India vs England Test? Rule says, it depends on Ben Stokes
BIG BREAKING: Massive blow to India as superstar player pulls out of ongoing 3rd Test against England midway
