Ravichandran Ashwin has withdrawn from the Indian Test squad due to family emergency, effective immediately which means he’ll miss the remainder of the ongoing 3rd Test at Rajkot, the BCCI announced late Friday night.
“Ravichandran Ashwin has withdrawn from the Test squad, effective immediately due to a family medical emergency.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 statement read.
“The BCCI extends its heartfelt support to the champion cricketer and his family. The health and well-being of the players and their loved ones are of utmost importance. The Board requests respect for the privacy of Ashwin and his family as they navigate through this challenging time,” it added.
The nature of the emergency is yet to be known but the board stated that any necessary assistance to the player and his family will be provided and said it appreciated the fans and media for their empathy.
“The Board and the team will continue to provide any necessary assistance to Ashwin and will keep the lines of communication open to offer support as needed. Team India appreciates the understanding and empathy of the fans and media during this sensitive period,” the board further clarified.
Earlier in the day, Ashwin had gotten to a record 500th Test wickets when he dismissed Zak Crawley in England’s first innings.
He also became the second Indian bowler after Anil Kumble to take 500 Test wickets during the third Test against England — a feat which means a lot to the senior off-spinner after enduring a phase when he did know how to come out of the “dark tunnel” he had hit.
Ashwin also became only the third off-spinner to achieve the feat and continues to be the second highest wicket-taker for India behind Kumble, who ended his career with 619 scalps.
As of now, it’s unclear if Ashwin will be able to take part in the 4th and 5th Tests scheduled to be held in Ranchi from February 25-29 and Dharamsala from March 7-11.
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