The highly anticipated fifth and final Test match between India and England is set to take place in Dharamshala from March 7, marking the culmination of the five-match Test series. With India leading 3-1 in the series, the team is eager to secure a victory in the final test. Star spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, in particular, is poised to make this match memorable as he plays his 100th Test, presenting an opportunity to surpass legendary Anil Kumble in various records.
Ravichandran Ashwin: A Stalwart Spinner Eyeing Milestones in Dharamshala
In the ongoing series against England, Ashwin has already proven his mettle, claiming a total of 17 wickets in the four matches played so far. The off-spinner has been a pivotal force in India’s success, and the final Test in Dharamshala holds special significance as it marks Ashwin’s 100th appearance in the longest format of the game.
Ashwin has etched his name in the history of Test cricket by taking 35 five-wicket hauls in 99 matches and 187 innings. This places him on par with the legendary Anil Kumble, who also had 35 five-wicket hauls in his illustrious career. However, Dharamshala presents an opportunity for Ashwin to surpass Kumble and secure his position as the highest Indian wicket-taker in terms of five-wicket hauls.
Ashwin Aims for Historic Double Record: Surpassing Kumble and Extending Lead in Highest Five-Wicket Hauls
In addition to potentially overtaking Kumble, Ashwin could also become the leading Indian wicket-taker in terms of the number of times taking five wickets in an innings. Currently, he shares the record with Kumble, both having achieved this feat 35 times. This milestone will add another feather to Ashwin’s cap, solidifying his status as one of the greatest spinners in Indian cricket history.
Furthermore, in the ongoing series, Ashwin reached the remarkable milestone of 500 Test wickets during the Rajkot Test against England. Achieving this feat in 99 matches and 187 innings, he became only the second Indian bowler to reach this landmark after Anil Kumble. Dharamshala Test will provide Ashwin with an opportunity to extend his lead over Kumble in the list of highest Indian wicket-takers.
Eyes on Kumble’s Record as Dharamshala Test Marks 100th Appearance
While Kumble currently holds the record with 619 Test wickets, Ashwin, with 507 wickets, is steadily climbing the ladder. Another stellar performance in Dharamshala could potentially propel Ashwin further up the list of all-time highest wicket-takers in Test cricket.
The Dharamshala Test holds immense significance for Ravichandran Ashwin as he not only celebrates his 100th Test but also aims to leave an indelible mark by surpassing Anil Kumble in key records. Cricket enthusiasts around the world will be eagerly watching as Ashwin strives to etch his name in the annals of cricket history in this landmark match against England.