Ravichandran Ashwin: Overcoming adversity to achieve 500 wickets as a spin master

Ravichandran Ashwin, the Indian cricketer, has recently become the ninth bowler to claim 500 Test wickets. Notably, Ashwin is not just a talented bowler, but also an exceptional batter with five centuries to his name. In fact, some speculate that if Ashwin had chosen to focus solely on batting, he could have surpassed 10,000 Test runs. On a recent note, Ashwin achieved this milestone on Friday but had to withdraw from the third Test against England due to a family emergency. However, he has now rejoined the squad. Ashwin's batting skills were on display in a Test match where he valiantly saved the game alongside Hanuma Vihari, despite both players facing injuries. Ashwin's bowling technique is a combination of traditional and modern styles, with various off-break deliveries in his repertoire. While some traditionalists initially criticized Ashwin's experimentation, it has proven to be successful, yielding impressive results early in his career. He claimed nine five-wicket hauls in his first 16 Tests. Although Ashwin is often regarded as one of the best contemporary off-spinners, some believe his record is not fully recognized because the majority of his wickets have been taken on home soil. Indian off-spinners, such as Ghulam Ahmed, Erapalli Prasanna, Srinivas Venkataraghavan, and Harbhajan Singh, have also left their mark on the game. Interestingly, three of them, including Ashwin, are qualified engineers, highlighting the disciplined and intellectual nature of off-spinners. Off-spinners face challenges due to the familiarity of their primary delivery, the off-break, for right-handed batsmen. Additionally, the modern game with powerful bats has posed difficulties for this bowling style. However, players like Ashwin who have excelled in various conditions are considered exceptional. Ashwin's dedication to his craft is often described as "obsessive." He constantly seeks to improve his skills and has even developed a unique delivery called the carrom ball. In recent years, he has faced moments in and out of the Indian team but always appears to be a step ahead of others. Bowlers must work hard to stay ahead in the game, as technological advancements quickly analyze and disseminate new techniques. Although Ashwin may have missed the opportunity to captain the Indian team due to the emergence of younger players, he would have been a strong candidate. Initially, his teammates may have struggled to comprehend his unique approach, but once they gained confidence in his abilities, they would trust in his leadership. Ashwin formed a formidable bowling partnership with Ravindra Jadeja, collectively claiming over 500 wickets. Their styles complement each other, with Jadeja providing stability and Ashwin offering a variety of techniques. This partnership has even surpassed the previous duo of Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh, who had similar temperaments. Among Indian cricketers, Ashwin's wicket tally is only second to Anil Kumble's impressive 619 wickets. In an interview, Ashwin expressed his admiration for Kumble and stated that reaching 618 wickets would mark his last Test match. Overall, Ravichandran Ashwin is a captivating individual who continues to make significant contributions to the game of cricket.