As legendary Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin gears up for his historic 100th Test match, Australia’s cricketing great Ricky Ponting heaped praise on him, calling him a “master of spin in any conditions.”
Ravichandran Ashwin on cusp of History
Ravichandran Ashwin stands on the threshold of a remarkable achievement, becoming only the 14th Indian cricketer to play 100 Test matches.
This milestone signifies a glittering career that has seen him not only scale the pinnacle of individual bowling feats but also etch his name in cricketing folklore.
Records Tumble as Ashwin Shines
Every match featuring Ashwin’s magical spin has witnessed records being broken. In the ongoing series against England, he surpassed the prestigious 500-wicket mark, leaving behind legends like Anil Kumble to become India’s highest wicket-taker in Test cricket.
He also holds the record for most five-wicket hauls in Tests, trailing only the legendary trio of Muttiah Muralitharan, Shane Warne, and Richard Hadlee.
Working Alongside a Mastermind at Delhi Capitals
Ricky Ponting, the current head coach of Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League (IPL), had the unique opportunity to work closely with Ashwin. This experience provided him with first-hand knowledge of the spinner’s exceptional talent and dedication.
“He’s an incredible cricketer, no doubt about it,” Ponting stated on the latest episode of the ICC Review. “He’s a master of spin, and I loved working with him at Delhi. He has a lot of theories and philosophies about the game, which I really like. He’s always done things differently, his own way, but constantly evolving as a bowler.”
Ponting further elaborated on Ashwin’s relentless pursuit of improvement. “He’s always working on something different, a tweak to his action, a different grip, a new delivery. He never stops trying to find ways to get better,” he remarked.
Focus shifts to Ashwin’s 100th and WTC Points
With India securing a dominant 3-1 lead in the ongoing Test series against England, the focus now shifts to the final match in Dharamsala. This match holds immense significance not only for the World Test Championship points at stake but also for Ashwin, as it marks his momentous 100th Test appearance.
With Rohit Sharma’s men currently holding the top spot in the WTC standings, they will be aiming to maintain their position and ensure a truly memorable occasion for Ashwin’s landmark achievement.
