"Like to dedicate this feat to my father" - Ravichandran Ashwin's first reaction on picking 500 Test wickets

India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin opened up about picking 500 wickets in Test cricket during the ongoing third Test against England. He dedicated his special feat to his father, saying that his dad has been with him through thick and thin.

Ravichandran Ashwin on Friday (16th February) scripted history as he became only the second bowler from India to claim 500 Test wickets. The off-spinner removed Zak Crawley during Day 2 of the second innings and completed the special milestone in his career.

Ravichandran Ashwin achieved the feat in 98 Test matches, which is the fastest by any bowler in the history of the game. He became the 9th bowler overall to complete 500 Test wickets. In terms of Indian bowlers, he only has Anil Kumble ahead of him, who has 619 wickets to his name in the longest format of the game.

Ravichandran Ashwin has been an incredible servant for the Indian team cricket team in Test cricket. The 500 wickets have been testimony to his hard work and the kind of performances he has put in for the team in the format since the last one decade.

Ravichandran Ashwin while highlighting his long journey pointed out how his father has supported him at every stage of life. He also talked about England’s attacking approach, saying that they have made them think a lot. Speaking to broadcasters, he explained:

“It’s been quite a long journey. Firstly I’d like to dedicate this feat to my father. He’s been with me through thick and thin, probably had a heart-attack every time he’s watched me play. His health has probably gone for a toss because of that.

“England are showing a lot of intent, playing like they would in an ODI or T20 game. Given us a lot to think about, we have to keep doing what we’re doing and hope that one goes to hand.”

I think the game is in the balance – Ravichandran Ashwin

Ravichandran Ashwin further while talking about England’s approach said that surfaces have allowed batters to take time on the three days. He talked about the pitch, saying that it will get tough on Day 5 and all they need to do is exercise discipline.

Ravichandran Ashwin believes that the game is in balance. He admitted that England is putting them under pressure and they need to stay composed and stay in the game. He elaborated:

“The surfaces we’ve played on in this series has allowed the batters time on the first three days. Expect this pitch to get hard on Day 5. We need to exercise discipline, England has been in such positions before. I think the game is in the balance, they’re putting us under pressure but it’s important we stay composed and stay in the game.”

After England ended India’s innings with 445 runs, they were off to a brutal start. Ben Duckett (133*) slammed a blistering century and put the team in the dominating position. At stumps on Day 2, England were 207/2 and are just 238 runs behind.