Published: Sep 25, 2016, 03:48 PM (IST)
Edited: Sep 25, 2016, 04:23 PM (IST)
Ravichandran Ashwin reaches new heights during India‘s 500th Test at Kanpur by becoming the second fastest bowler in Tests to reach 200 wickets. Ashwin’s 200th Test scalp was Kane Williamson, who was leg-before for 25. Ashwin was on 197 wickets before the start of the 2nd innings. Ashwin’s 198th Test wicket was Martin Guptill who was out for a duck. Guptill went for the wild heave and gave a bad-pad to silly point fielder. Ashwin’s 199th wicket was Tom Latham. Latham missed a straighter one which crashed into this pads, and he fell for a mere 2. Ashwin is only second to Clarrie Grimmet of Australia who reached this feat in 36 Tests. Ashwin is the leading wicket-taker for India in the current side. Ashwin also becomes the fastest off-spinner in history to reach 200 wickets. Muttiah Muralitharan managed to take 200 wickets in 42 Tests followed by Lance Gibbs, Saqlain Mustaq and Harbhajan Singh. Ashwin took utmost advantage of the turning track at Kanpur, leading the bowling attack consisting of only four bowlers.
Ashwin is currently placed at third spot in ICC Test player rankings. Recently he gained the first spot before Steyn reclaimed his throne with his performance against New Zealand in home series. Over the period of time Ashwin has become the front-line bowler for India with his performance. With Indian skipper Virat Kohli opted to bat and including 6 batsmen in the team, had faith in Ashwin’s responsibility as a batsmen. Ashwin had the backing of left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja. At the time of publishing this report New Zealand needed 389 runs chasing India’s target of 434 runs.
Ashwin’s bowling record in home conditions is outstanding taking 133 wickets in 21 Tests at an average of 21 (approx). His chances of reaching this feat would have increased significantly if not for a washed out fourth Test at Port of Spain against West Indies.
