Ravi Shastri hails Ravichandran Ashwin as an 'astronaut' ahead of the latter's 100th Test match
Published - 07 Mar 2024, 12:04 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 12:27 AM
Former Indian all-rounder Ravi Shastri paid tribute to veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin for his remarkable journey in cricket. Ravi Shastri praised Ravichandran Ashwin for his outstanding achievements, highlighting his early recognition as a rising talent.
Ravichandran Ashwin joined the elite list of Indian cricketers during the fifth and final Test match of the ongoing series against England. The Indian spin bowling spearhead became the 14th Indian cricketer to represent the national cricket team in 100 Test matches.
The 37-year-old has played a crucial role in India’s extensive winning streak in home Test matches, having taken 507 Test wickets at an impressive average of 23.91. His bowling feats include 35 five-wicket hauls and eight 10-wicket match hauls, with a best figure of 7/59.
Complementing his bowling prowess, the Tamil Nadu cricketer has also scored 3,309 runs in 140 innings at an average of 26.47. Ashwin has smashed five centuries and 14 half-centuries, making him one of the most accomplished all-rounders in modern-day cricket.
Ravichandran Ashwin Would Be The Next – Ravi Shastri
In a video shared by the BCCI, Ravi Shastri reflected on Ravichandran Ashwin‘s remarkable journey. Shastri likened Ashwin to an “astronaut,” noting the continuous improvement in his skills over time.
“It’s not often, you can say that about spinners but you knew very clearly, he would be the next,” Shastri said.
“The astronaut that he is and the wavelengths he gets onto, comes naturally to him and you can see the skill factors just getting better and better,” he added.
Before the start of the fifth Test, Ravichandran Ashwin was the joint-highest wicket-taker for India in the ongoing home series. He has picked up 17 wickets in four matches at a decent average of 30.41, including one five-wicket haul. Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja have also taken 17 wickets each.
Ravichandran Ashwin Has Been A Match Winner – Rohit Sharma
During a press conference ahead of the Dharmasala Test, Rohit Sharma acknowledged Ravichandran Ashwin’s significant impact on Indian cricket. The Indian captain praised Ashwin’s role as a match-winner, stating that it is rare to have players like him.
“Big achievement for any player to play 100 Tests. He has been a match-winner for us. What he has done for us, no praise is enough. His performances over the last five or seven years, every series he has contributed. It is rare to have players like him,” Rohit Shara was quoted as saying by PTI.
India and England are facing off in the fifth Test at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala. With India securing a 3-1 series lead, under the leadership of Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum, England will strive to save their pride.
Despite the series outcome, both teams have the opportunity to earn World Test Championship points. India is leading the standings, and England is positioned eighth. Winning the match will earn a side 12 crucial points, while a draw will earn them four points.
