Ravichandran Ashwin marked his 100th Test appearance with a splendid performance, playing a pivotal role in India‘s successful outing on Day 1 of the fifth Test against England in Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) stadium in Dharamsala.
The veteran off-spinner exhibited his expertise, picking four crucial wickets and concluding with impressive figures of 4/51. However, the standout performer of the day was Ashwin’s young spin compatriot, Kuldeep Yadav, whose exceptional five-wicket haul (5/43) surpassed even the seasoned Ashwin’s remarkable feat.
Spin maestro: Kuldeep Yadav’s leading role
While Ashwin in his 100th Test showcased his class, Kuldeep’s spin magic stole the limelight. The emerging wrist-spinner outshone his senior counterpart by securing a remarkable five-wicket haul, the third of his promising career. Kuldeep’s spell orchestrated an England collapse, with the visitors losing seven wickets for a mere 43 runs after a promising start.
Ravichandran Ashwin and Kuldeep’s heartwarming exchange
In a touching display of sportsmanship and camaraderie, after dismissing England for 218, Kuldeep handed the ball to Ashwin as a symbolic gesture, suggesting the senior spinner lead the team off the field in honor of his 100th Test. In a humility-filled response, Ashwin graciously declined, returning the ball to Kuldeep and insisting that the wrist-spinner take the lead, showcasing mutual respect and team spirit.
Also READ: Twitter reactions: Kuldeep Yadav, Ravichandran Ashwin, Batters headline India’s dominance on Day 1 of the Dharamsala Test against England
Team Unity: Kuldeep acknowledged for brilliance
As the team collectively applauded, Kuldeep took the initiative to lead the side off the field, acknowledging his outstanding performance in the remarkable bowling display. The exchange of gestures between Ashwin and Kuldeep not only showcased the unity within the team but also exemplified the mutual respect that defines Indian cricket. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared the video on their social media platfroms.
Here’s the video:
𝙈𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙨 𝙇𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙨𝙚!
R Ashwin 🤝 Kuldeep Yadav
Follow the match ▶️ #TeamIndia | #INDvENG | @ashwinravi99 | @imkuldeep18 | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/hJyrCS6Hqh
— BCCI (@BCCI) March 7, 2024
Historical landmark: Ashwin’s 100th Test for Team India
Ashwin further etched his name in the annals of Indian cricket history by becoming the 14th player to reach the milestone of 100 Test matches for Team India. His illustrious career reached this historic juncture, joining an exclusive club of cricketing legends. Cheteshwar Pujara had previously achieved this milestone, last featuring in his 100th Test against Australia in February 2023.
