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| Ravi Ashwin - File photo |
In an unexpected turn of events, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) dropped a bombshell late on Friday night, announcing the sudden withdrawal of premier spinner Ravichandran Ashwin from the ongoing Test series against England. The reason cited was a medical emergency in Ashwin's family, with the BCCI urging the public to respect the player's privacy and assuring full support during this difficult time.
It has now emerged that Ashwin rushed to Chennai to be with his ailing mother, who played a pivotal role in shaping his cricketing journey. Ashwin's father, Ravichandran, revealed that his wife Chitra was the driving force behind Ashwin's decision to pursue spin bowling over fast bowling, demonstrating her influence on his career from a young age.
The timing of Ashwin's withdrawal adds an unexpected twist to what was supposed to be a celebratory moment for the cricketer. On February 16, 2024, Ashwin achieved a significant milestone by becoming only the second Indian bowler to complete 500 Test wickets. However, this personal triumph was overshadowed by the family emergency.
On the field, Ashwin had a memorable day during the third Test, contributing with both bat and ball. His urgent departure has left Team India grappling with a challenge, being a man down not just in the bowling department but also on the field. With England responding strongly to India's first-innings total, the absence of Ashwin poses a significant setback.
While the cricketing world acknowledges the gravity of the situation, discussions are emerging about the impact of Ashwin's absence on the series. The ICC rules limit substitutions to cases of injury or Covid-19, posing a dilemma for India's team management. An official replacement for Ashwin, who is out of the series indefinitely, is anticipated.
In these trying times, the cricketing community sends prayers and best wishes to Ravichandran Ashwin and his family. The unexpected twist in the series emphasizes the unpredictable nature of both cricket and life, reminding fans and players alike that priorities extend beyond the boundary lines.
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