Ravichandran Ashwin named vice captain of the Indian Test team

Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin who is currently in midst of a dream run in the longest format of the game was rewarded for his performances and was named as Virat Kohli’s deputy by the national selection panel headed by former India wicketkeeper MSK Prasad. According to reports, all the five selectors (MSK Prasad, Jatin Paranjape, Gagan Khoda, Devang Gandhi and Sarandeep Singh) unanimously chosen Ashwin as the new vice-captain of the Indian Test team.

The choice was conveyed to BCCI on Thursday and the announcement will likely take place in the next 24 hours. Earlier the selection panel had named Ajinkya Rahane as Kohli’s lieutenant but they had to think of a different option after the batsman was ruled out of the last two Tests due to an injury.

Ashwin who is currently playing his 43rd Test wouldn’t have been happier with his efforts. On Thursday during the 2nd day of the 4th Test, he went past Javagal Srinath to become the 7th highest wicket taker for India in Tests. He bagged yet another five-wicket haul to take his tally of 5-wicket hauls to 23 only behind Harbhajan Singh (25) and current team India coach Anil Kumble (35).

Ashwin is having a terrific year especially in the longest format of the game and the way he is performing on a consistent basis, he might as well take Indian cricket to greater unseen heights. Despite having an extraordinary Test record as a bowler his performance away from the subcontinent hasn’t been great but he has been a match-winner for India especially in home conditions.

He has also allowed Captain Virat Kohli to play an extra bowler for his batting skills. He has regularly contributed to the team’s score and has already scored four centuries in his 42-match Test career. Ashwin would hope to create more magic in England’s 2nd innings and seal the series at the Wankhede.