After a lengthy hiatus, Team India made a strong return to Test cricket, claiming a decisive victory in the first Test against Bangladesh. Ravichandran Ashwin, a local hero, played a pivotal role in both batting and bowling, providing stability to the innings and disrupting the Bangladeshi lineup with his exceptional bowling. His all-round performance not only set the tone for the match but also highlighted his importance to the team’s success.
Ravichandran Ashwin Talked About Playing in Chennai:
Ravichandran Ashwin was named Player of the Match for his outstanding all-round performance. In the post-match interview, he reflected on the special memories of playing in his hometown of Chennai, expressing gratitude for the support from local fans. His connection to the city added an emotional touch to his remarkable achievement in the match.
He said, “ Every time I play in Chennai in front of this crowd, it’s an amazing feeling for me. I have watched a lot of Test cricket and international cricket sitting in those stands. To play in front of those stands, it’s a beautifully renovated stadium now, that itself is a special feeling for me.”
Ashwin expressed that he enjoys the game for the experience itself rather than any personal gain. He saw it as an opportunity to dig deep, a vital aspect of cricket. Grateful to Jadeja for guiding him through challenging moments, he felt his innings on the first day was special and was pleased to take a few wickets too.
He further said, “ I am probably enjoying my game because of what I am doing and not because of what I want to get out of it. It was an opportunity to fight and dig in deep, that’s one of the reasons why we all play the game. I have seen so many of my team-mates do that in the past. I just kept it really simple, have to thank Jadeja for what he did, he just took me through the tough phases of the innings. Quite a special knock on the first day, didn’t sink in until day two. Glad I ended up with a few wickets today as well.”
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He also shared insights into his mindset during the game, emphasizing the importance of staying focused and adapting to the situation. Ashwin discussed how he approached his performances with a strategic mindset, considering both his batting and bowling roles.
He added, “ I make a living by bowling, so bowling comes first all the time. I think like a bowler mostly but I have made a conscious effort to think like a batter when I walk out with a bat in my hand. Batting is something that comes naturally but yet I have struggled sometimes with my thought getting ahead of myself. I have tried to manage it. Over the last few years, I have managed to compartmentalize both, but it is a work in process.”
Ravichandran Ashwin’s Magic in Chennai:
Ravichandran Ashwin showcased his skillful bowling and solid batting during the match, scoring 113 runs off 133 balls and contributing to a significant 199-run partnership with fellow spinner Ravindra Jadeja. Although he didn’t claim any wickets in the first innings, Ashwin’s economical bowling was instrumental in maintaining pressure on the opposing batsmen.
His ability to bowl tightly allowed Jadeja to flourish, creating a formidable duo that frustrated the opposition. Ashwin’s performance not only underscored his value as a bowler but also highlighted his versatility as an all-rounder, demonstrating his importance to the team’s success in the match. The partnership exemplified their combined strengths, reinforcing India’s dominance on the field.
In the second innings, Ravichandran Ashwin didn’t need to contribute with the bat, as he made a significant impact with the ball, dismantling Bangladesh’s batting order. He delivered an impressive performance, bowling 21 overs and conceding just 88 runs while taking 6 wickets. His ability to strike at crucial moments rattled the opposition and showcased his exceptional skill and control. Ashwin’s efforts were pivotal in securing India’s dominance in the match, further solidifying his reputation as one of the premier bowlers in Test cricket.
Ravichandran Ashwin has achieved a remarkable milestone by recording 37 five-wicket hauls in Test cricket, equaling Shane Warne’s record. He also surpassed Anil Kumble for the most wickets in the fourth innings of Test matches, reaching a total of 99. For his outstanding performance, Ashwin was awarded Player of the Match, marking his 10th such accolade in Test cricket, further solidifying his status as a key player in the format.
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