Ravichandran Ashwin Creates History at MA Chidambaram Stadium
Ravichandran Ashwin, India’s prolific off-spinner, has added yet another feather to his cap by equaling the legendary West Indies bowler Courtney Walsh for the 8th most wickets in Test cricket. During the first Test against Bangladesh at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, Ashwin claimed his 519th wicket, putting him alongside Walsh in the annals of cricket history.
A Remarkable Achievement in Front of His Home Crowd
The first Test match against Bangladesh has been a special one for Ashwin. Not only did he achieve this milestone in his hometown of Chennai, but he also scored a crucial century in the first innings, showcasing his all-round capabilities. The 38-year-old cricketer’s performance has been instrumental in placing India in a commanding position as they push for victory.
India’s Spin Web: A Tough Challenge for Bangladesh
Ashwin’s partnership with fellow spinner Ravindra Jadeja has made life difficult for the Bangladeshi batters. As the match heads into the fourth day, the pitch at MA Chidambaram Stadium, known for favoring spinners in the latter stages, is expected to play a significant role. With Bangladesh chasing a formidable target of 515, Ashwin is poised to surpass Walsh and establish himself solely as the 8th highest wicket-taker in Test cricket.
A Look at the All-Time Test Wicket Takers
Here’s a quick look at the top Test wicket-takers of all time:
| Player | Country | Wickets |
|---|---|---|
| Muttiah Muralitharan | Sri Lanka | 800 |
| Shane Warne | Australia | 708 |
| James Anderson | England | 704 |
| Anil Kumble | India | 619 |
| Stuart Broad | England | 604 |
| Glenn McGrath | Australia | 563 |
| Nathan Lyon | Australia | 530 |
| Ravichandran Ashwin | India | 519 |
| Courtney Walsh | West Indies | 519 |
| Dale Steyn | South Africa | 439 |
Ashwin’s Journey to the Top
Ashwin’s journey has been nothing short of phenomenal. Known for his sharp mind and strategic approach to the game, he has become one of India’s most dependable match-winners, especially on home soil. His ability to outthink batters, coupled with his variations in spin and pace, has often left opposition teams in disarray.
