IND vs SL: Ravichandran Ashwin Reveals Kapil Dev's Message After Becoming India's Second-Highest Wicket-Taker In Test Cricket

Ace Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin went past Kapil Dev’s tally of 434 wickets in the second test against Sri Lanka to become India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket. The off-spinner now has 442 wickets in the longest format of the game and is within the top-10 all-time wicket-takers in Test cricket.

Ravichandran Ashwin dismissed Charith Asalanka to go past Kapil Dev’s tally. During the second Test, Ashwin also went past South Africa legend Dale Steyn’s wicket-taking tally (439). In a recent video that he posted on his Youtube channel, Ashwin revealed the message he received from the former Indian skipper.

Never Thought Of Going Past Kapil Dev’s Tally Of Wickets: Ravichandran Ashwin

“Congratulations! Truly happy you have broken my record. You have made India proud! Wishing you and the family all the good luck. Kapil Dev,” the former Indian captain wrote to Ashwin. Previously Ashwin had also shared his excitement about becoming India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket.

“Feeling so humbled. 28 years ago, I was cheering for Kapil Paaji along with my dad when he went past Richard Hadlee’s record,” Ashwin had said on his official YouTube channel.

“Even in my wildest dreams, I never thought of going past his tally of wickets. Because I always wanted to be a batsman especially when I started off as an eight-year old. In 1994, batting was my fascination. Sachin Tendulkar was just emerging into the scene and Kapil Dev, himself was a terrific striker of the cricket ball.”

Ravichandran Ashwin further recalled how he started bowling medium pace on his father’s advice during his initial days. However, he then changed to off-spin and became one of India’s matchwinners in international cricket.

“In fact, I used to bowl medium pace on my dad’s advice back then so that I can try to be the next Kapil Paaji. From there, to become an off-spinner and to represent India for so many years. In fact, I never thought I will play for India. I am so grateful and so humbled on this achievement,” said Ashwin in the video.

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