Ravichandran Ashwin has etched his name in the annals of cricket history by becoming the fastest Indian bowler to reach the milestone of 500 Test wickets. In a remarkable feat, Ashwin surpassed the legendary Anil Kumble to achieve this remarkable record. Let's delve into the details of this extraordinary achievement by the Indian off-spinner.

Ashwin's Milestone in the Third Test against England

In the highly anticipated third Test match between India and England, Ravichandran Ashwin reached the monumental milestone of 500 Test wickets. The moment arrived when Ashwin dismissed Zak Crawley, courtesy of a well-flighted delivery that deceived the English batsman in the air. With this wicket, Ashwin became the second-fastest bowler in the history of the game to achieve this feat.

Emotions and Celebrations

As soon as Ashwin completed his 500th Test wicket, his teammates gathered around him, exchanging bearhugs and applauding his exceptional achievement. Head coach Rahul Dravid and the support staff joined in the celebration from the dressing room, acknowledging the significance of this milestone. Ashwin himself appeared relieved but focused on the job at hand, as the series against England was still in progress.

Ashwin's Remarkable Career Statistics

Ravichandran Ashwin's journey to 500 Test wickets has been nothing short of remarkable. He achieved this feat in his 98th Test match, becoming the second-fastest bowler to reach this milestone, trailing only behind the legendary Muttiah Muralitharan. Ashwin's dominance is evident, especially in home conditions, where he has taken 351 wickets at an astonishing average of 21.26. Even on foreign soil, Ashwin has been formidable, claiming 149 wickets at an average of 30.40.

Praise from Anil Kumble and Acknowledgment of Ashwin's Quality

Anil Kumble, the previous record holder for the fastest Indian to reach 500 Test wickets, lauded Ashwin's achievement. Kumble acknowledged Ashwin's prowess both in India and abroad, stating that Ashwin should have been given more opportunities to showcase his skills outside of India. Kumble emphasized the incredible impact Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja have had in Indian conditions and believed they should have been the first choice for the Indian team in overseas matches.

Ashwin's Journey to Stardom

Ravichandran Ashwin's career had humble beginnings, as he had to wait for his chance in the playing XI while Harbhajan Singh served as India's premier off-spinner. However, Ashwin's talent and skill gradually propelled him into becoming an integral part of the Indian cricket team. He mastered the art of spin bowling and emulated the success of Harbhajan Singh, especially in home conditions. Ashwin currently boasts an impressive record of 34 five-wicket hauls and 8 ten-wicket hauls in Test cricket.

Ashwin's Record-breaking Performance against England

With his 500th Test wicket, Ashwin also surpassed BS Chandrasekhar to become India's leading wicket-taker against England in Test cricket. Ashwin's recent form has been exceptional, and he showcased his spin-bowling masterclass throughout the series. In the previous Test at Visakhapatnam, Ashwin dismissed Joe Root, setting the stage for his entry into the illustrious 500-wicket club in Test cricket.

Ashwin's Place in Test Cricket History

At 37 years of age, Ravichandran Ashwin has firmly established himself as one of the greatest spinners in the history of Test cricket. Playing his 98th Test match, he joins the elite club of nine bowlers who have achieved the remarkable feat of taking 500 Test wickets. He achieved this milestone seven Tests quicker than Anil Kumble, highlighting his exceptional consistency and impact on the game.

As Ashwin continues to perform at the highest level, his contributions to the Indian cricket team and the sport as a whole will be remembered for years to come.