IND vs ENG: Ravichandran Ashwin withdraws from Rajkot Test to be alongside his ailing mother

In a surprising turn of events, Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has withdrawn from the ongoing 3rd Test, citing a family medical emergency. The announcement came as a shock to cricket enthusiasts and has left the team reeling.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has expressed its unwavering support for Ashwin during this challenging time. In a statement, the BCCI emphasised the importance of the health and well-being of the players and their families. The cricket board has urged everyone to respect the privacy of Ashwin and his family as they navigate through this difficult period.

"Ravichandran Ashwin has withdrawn from the Test squad, effective immediately due to a family medical emergency. In these challenging times, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the team fully supports Ashwin," the BCCI stated in a press release. 

In a heartfelt message, the BCCI also assured that they would continue to provide any necessary assistance to Ashwin and keep communication channels open to offer support as needed. The decision to withdraw from the Test must have been a tough one for the champion cricketer, and the BCCI's acknowledgement of the family emergency reflects their commitment to prioritizing the personal lives of the players.

The BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla further revealed the reason behind Ashwin's absence and stated that the off-spinner had to leave due to the ill health of his mother.

"Wishing speedy recovery of mother of R Ashwin. He has to rush and leave Rajkot test to Chennai to be with his mother," wrote Rajeev Shukla on his X account.

Ravichandran Ashwin became the fastest Indian bowler to take 500 Test wickets

Ashwin's absence means that India will be a man short in their bowling line up for the remainder of the Test. Meanwhile, in the ongoing match in Rajkot, Ashwin showcased his exceptional skills by dismissing Zak Crawley and achieving his 500th Test wicket, becoming the fastest Indian to reach this milestone in 98 matches. This accomplishment ranks him as the second fastest globally, just behind Muttiah Muralidaran (87 matches). Ashwin is now the second Indian and third Asian, following Muralidaran, to attain 500 Test wickets.

During India's 2021 England tour, he broke Anil Kumble's record by reaching 400 Test wickets in 77 matches and went on to achieve 500 wickets in just 21 more matches. Completing this milestone in 25,714 deliveries, Ashwin stands second only to Glenn McGrath, who took 25,528 deliveries for the same achievement. Ashwin has secured the record for the fastest Indian to reach every 50-wicket mark from 50 to 450, highlighting his consistent wicket-taking ability.