IND vs ENG 2nd Test: Ravichandran Ashwin Creates History with Spin Magic
In the thrilling IND vs ENG 2nd Test at Vishakhapatnam, Team India’s star spinner, Ravichandran Ashwin, made headlines by shattering a significant record previously held by the legendary leg-spinner, Bhagwat Chandrasekhar. This article delves into Ashwin’s remarkable feat, comparing it with the records of other Indian spinners and highlighting the dominance of England’s James Anderson.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s Record-Breaking Moment
1. Ashwin Surpasses Bhagwat Chandrasekhar
On the fourth day of the Vishakhapatnam Test, Ashwin achieved a significant milestone by becoming the highest wicket-taker for India against England in Test cricket. His dismissal of Ollie Pope in the second innings marked his 97th wicket in 21 Test matches against England.
2. Total Wickets for Ashwin
Ashwin’s stellar performance against England in 21 Test matches has now accumulated to an impressive 97 wickets. His overall Test record boasts an astounding 499 wickets in 96 Test matches for India.
3. Five-Wicket Hauls and Double-Digit Dismissals
In Test cricket, Ashwin has claimed 34 five-wicket hauls and has dismissed ten or more batsmen in a match on eight occasions, showcasing his prowess as a premier spin bowler.
Comparing with Bhagwat Chandrasekhar
4. Chandrasekhar’s Legacy
Bhagwat Chandrasekhar, the former leg-spinner, had a commendable record against England, securing 95 wickets in 23 Test matches with an average of 27.27. Despite Chandrasekhar’s illustrious career, Ashwin has now surpassed him in the race for the most wickets against England.
5. Best Bowling Performance
Chandrasekhar’s best bowling performance against England included a remarkable spell of 9 wickets for 107 runs. In contrast, Ashwin’s consistent performances have solidified his position as India’s leading wicket-taker against England in Test cricket.
Other Indian Spinners’ Performances
6. Anil Kumble’s Impact
Former leg-spinner Anil Kumble, another stalwart of Indian cricket, had an impressive record against England, securing 92 wickets in 19 Test matches with an average of 30.59.
7. Bishan Singh Bedi’s Contribution
Bishan Singh Bedi, a left-arm spinner, claimed 85 wickets in 22 Test matches against England, with an average of 29.87, showcasing the rich history of Indian spin bowling against the English side.
James Anderson’s Dominance
8. Anderson’s Test Records Against India
England’s pace maestro, James Anderson, has been a constant threat to the Indian batting line-up. In 36 Test matches against India, Anderson has scalped an impressive 144 wickets, highlighting his effectiveness against the Indian team.
9. Five-Wicket Hauls by Anderson
Anderson’s prowess is further emphasized by his six instances of claiming five-wicket hauls in Test matches against India, underlining his ability to dismantle the Indian batting order.
10. Overall Test Wickets for Anderson
With a staggering 695 Test wickets to his name, James Anderson stands as one of the most successful fast bowlers in the history of Test cricket.
In the ever-evolving landscape of Test cricket, Ravichandran Ashwin’s remarkable achievement against England in the 2nd Test adds another chapter to India’s rich spin bowling legacy. As he surpasses legends like Bhagwat Chandrasekhar and competes with the likes of Anil Kumble, Bishan Singh Bedi, and James Anderson, Ashwin solidifies his position as a spin maestro for Team India.