<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7f0f25cf-5941-4853-b916-7924b29e46c6}{38}" paraid="1438528534" >Devon Conway on Monday stole the show in the first T20I of the five-match series against Australia at the Hagley Oval as he smashed an unbeaten 99 off just 59 deliveries to help New Zealand post a massive total of 184 runs. Conway, who has been hammering runs in the shortest format of the game consistently, was recently overlooked in the IPL 2021 Auction with no franchise picking up the Kiwi batsman.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{06e85001-6b3e-4a6a-81d4-d90d8eb96b8a}{105}" paraid="592573152" >Following, Conway’s blistering knock, India’s Ravichandran Ashwin took to Twitter as he wrote that his knock came just four days late. Former New Zealand cricketer turned commentator Simon Doull and former England batsman Kevin Pietersen also jumped into the conversation.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4cdbff1f-b98f-4e6e-9668-fc366b08388e}{16}" paraid="1436218069" >While Doull said that New Zealand players have been constantly overlooked for “second rate” Australian cricketers whereas Pietersen said whether Conway is of South African heritage or not. Notably, Pietersen, who played international cricket for England, is of South African heritage.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4cdbff1f-b98f-4e6e-9668-fc366b08388e}{16}" paraid="1436218069" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-james-anderson-gives-his-verdict-on-motera-stadiums-pitch-ahead-of-pink-ball-test-365455" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: James Anderson gives his verdict on Motera Stadium's pitch ahead of pink-ball Test</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{00b05a96-99c2-46a3-954f-65e23046fac0}{228}" paraid="766994437" >Conway made his T20I debut vs West Indies in November 2020. While the 29-year-old fell just short of his maiden T20I century, his last five innings have 50+ scores in the shortest format of the game. He has scored&nbsp;99*, 93*, 91*, 69* and 50 in his past five innings.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{53d8bd5f-abbf-4d44-8e3d-509fc2fbbb20}{247}" paraid="1437710890" >Ashwin wrote:&nbsp;&nbsp;"Devon Conway is just 4 days late, but what a knock."&nbsp;</p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Devon Conway is just 4 days late, but what a knock 👏👏👏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvNZ</a></p>
— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1363755742247804930?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Is Devon South African?</p>
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1363832069030350848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>However, Conway can still be picked by an IPL franchise if they decide to buy a replacement player.&nbsp;</p>


Devon Conway on Monday stole the show in the first T20I of the five-match series against Australia at the Hagley Oval as he smashed an unbeaten 99 off just 59 deliveries to help New Zealand post a massive total of 184 runs.

Devon Conway on Monday stole the show in the first T20I of the five-match series against Australia at the Hagley Oval as he smashed an unbeaten 99 off just 59 deliveries to help New Zealand post a massive total of 184 runs. Conway, who has been hammering runs in the shortest format of the game consistently, was recently overlooked in the IPL 2021 Auction with no franchise picking up the Kiwi batsman. Following, Conway’s blistering knock, India’s Ravichandran Ashwin took to Twitter as he wrote that his knock came just four days late. Former New Zealand cricketer turned commentator Simon Doull and former England batsman Kevin Pietersen also jumped into the conversation. While Doull said that New Zealand players have been constantly overlooked for “second rate” Australian cricketers whereas Pietersen said whether Conway is of South African heritage or not. Notably, Pietersen, who played international cricket for England, is of South African heritage. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: James Anderson gives his verdict on Motera Stadium's pitch ahead of pink-ball Test Conway made his T20I debut vs West Indies in November 2020. While the 29-year-old fell just short of his maiden T20I century, his last five innings have 50+ scores in the shortest format of the game. He has scored 99*, 93*, 91*, 69* and 50 in his past five innings. Ashwin wrote: "Devon Conway is just 4 days late, but what a knock." Devon Conway is just 4 days late, but what a knock 👏👏👏 #AUSvNZ — Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) February 22, 2021 × Is Devon South African? — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) February 22, 2021 × However, Conway can still be picked by an IPL franchise if they decide to buy a replacement player.

R Ashwin, Simon Doull, Kevin Pietersen react after Devon Conway's 99-run knock

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{066250c5-614f-4b20-a147-cb3aafd356e3}{135}" paraid="906017133" >Ravichandran Ashwin has been India's one of the biggest match-winners in the longest format of the game. While Ashwin continues to impress in the Indian Premier League and domestic tournaments when it comes to white-ball cricket, the veteran&nbsp;hasn't been able to make a comeback in the Indian squad in the shorter formats of the game.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{2c19de2c-eea6-4e96-bdab-2a22e6d15c60}{39}" paraid="1869611528" >Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has weighed in his opinion on Ashwin as he made a bold claim on his future in white-ball cricket for India.&nbsp;Gavaskar has said that there is no place for Ashwin in India's limited-overs squad. However, the Indian legend said that Ashwin will represent India in Test cricket for half a dozen years more.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{77f8af05-272d-4c5d-a612-0b3a1d989c33}{102}" paraid="799823221" >Citing Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya's place in India's limited-overs squad, Gavaskar said Ashwin doesn't fit in the squad due to the current team balance.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{77f8af05-272d-4c5d-a612-0b3a1d989c33}{102}" paraid="799823221" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-would-have-played-t20-world-cup-in-2020-says-former-team-india-selector-365171" hreflang="en">MS Dhoni would have played T20 World Cup in 2020, says former Team India selector</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{ccaa61b6-d58e-4142-921d-a1742cd7cf46}{111}" paraid="309765484" >“I somehow don’t think he will now make a comeback in the Indian limited-overs team because India have found in Hardik Pandya the all-rounder at No.7, there is Ravindra Jadeja and then they will have three seamers or maybe one spinner and two-seamers,” Sunil Gavaskar told Star&nbsp;Sports.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{ccaa61b6-d58e-4142-921d-a1742cd7cf46}{129}" paraid="1433783166" >“I don’t think he will fit into the squad at the moment and therefore, he will be a Test match player for the next half a dozen years at least,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{ccaa61b6-d58e-4142-921d-a1742cd7cf46}{129}" paraid="1433783166" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/on-the-cusp-of-100th-test-delhis-lambu-stands-tall-365174" hreflang="en">On the cusp of 100th Test, Delhi's 'lambu' stands tall</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{ccaa61b6-d58e-4142-921d-a1742cd7cf46}{138}" paraid="1032777640" >Meanwhile, Ashwin continues to shatter record books in Test cricket. In 76 Test matches, Ashwin has scalped 394 wickets while also accumulating 2626 runs at an average of 28.2. With two more Test matches remaining in the series against England, Ashwin is eyeing&nbsp;400 Test wickets to add another feather to his illustrious cap.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5a7a7b92-5776-4e2e-b08f-4b0e13eeadfd}{47}" paraid="1941871235" >India will next face England in the third match, which will be a pink-ball Test, starting from February 24 in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;</p>


Ravichandran Ashwin has been India's one of the biggest match-winners in the longest format of the game. While Ashwin continues to impress in the Indian Premier League and domestic tournaments when it comes to white-ball cricket, the veteran hasn't been able to make a comeback in the Indian squad in the shorter formats of the game.

Ravichandran Ashwin has been India's one of the biggest match-winners in the longest format of the game. While Ashwin continues to impress in the Indian Premier League and domestic tournaments when it comes to white-ball cricket, the veteran hasn't been able to make a comeback in the Indian squad in the shorter formats of the game. Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has weighed in his opinion on Ashwin as he made a bold claim on his future in white-ball cricket for India. Gavaskar has said that there is no place for Ashwin in India's limited-overs squad. However, the Indian legend said that Ashwin will represent India in Test cricket for half a dozen years more. Citing Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya's place in India's limited-overs squad, Gavaskar said Ashwin doesn't fit in the squad due to the current team balance. ALSO READ: MS Dhoni would have played T20 World Cup in 2020, says former Team India selector “I somehow don’t think he will now make a comeback in the Indian limited-overs team because India have found in Hardik Pandya the all-rounder at No.7, there is Ravindra Jadeja and then they will have three seamers or maybe one spinner and two-seamers,” Sunil Gavaskar told Star Sports. “I don’t think he will fit into the squad at the moment and therefore, he will be a Test match player for the next half a dozen years at least,” he added. ALSO READ: On the cusp of 100th Test, Delhi's 'lambu' stands tall Meanwhile, Ashwin continues to shatter record books in Test cricket. In 76 Test matches, Ashwin has scalped 394 wickets while also accumulating 2626 runs at an average of 28.2. With two more Test matches remaining in the series against England, Ashwin is eyeing 400 Test wickets to add another feather to his illustrious cap. India will next face England in the third match, which will be a pink-ball Test, starting from February 24 in Ahmedabad.

Can Ashwin make a comeback in India's limited overs team? Sunil Gavaskar opines

<p>Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin and opener Rohit Sharma jumped several places in the ICC Test Player Rankings after an emphatic win over England in the recently-concluded second Test match.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-still-got-long-way-to-become-consistent-keeper-michael-vaughan-on-rishabh-pant-364210" hreflang="en">'He's still got long way to become consistent keeper': Michael Vaughan on Rishabh Pant</a></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma's 161 runs in the first innings powered India to 329 runs. The prolific opener gained nine places after the gritty knock and is now at 14th position, his best since November 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Local boy Ravichandran Ashwin's all-round magic at Chepauk saw him jump 14 places to 81st in the list of batsmen after scoring a gritty ton in the second innings. However, he remains seventh among bowlers after grabbing eight wickets in the match. Chennai-based Ashwin gained 33 rating points to reach within three points of sixth-ranked Stuart Broad and to within 21 of second-ranked Neil Wagner.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-most-likely-to-be-rested-for-white-ball-series-against-england-reports-364183" hreflang="en">Jasprit Bumrah most likely to be rested for white-ball series against England: Reports</a></p>

<p>Upward graph for Rishabh Pant continues after young southpaw's 58 not out in the first innings has helped him continue his upward movement and he is now at a career-best 11th position. Kuldeep Yadav returned to 50th rank, whereas, debutant Axar Patel entered the list at 68th place. Patel got a fifer on his maiden Test match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Losing team England had their share of ups and downs in the updated rankings, spinner Jack Leach gained six places to reach 31st position at a career-best 524 points after grabbing six wickets in the match. However, the remainder slipped down in their rankings, including Ben Stokes, who has lost his top position among all-rounders to West Indies' Jason Holder.</p>


Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin and opener Rohit Sharma jumped several places in the ICC Test Player Rankings after an emphatic win over England in the recently-concluded second Test match.

Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin and opener Rohit Sharma jumped several places in the ICC Test Player Rankings after an emphatic win over England in the recently-concluded second Test match. ALSO READ: 'He's still got long way to become consistent keeper': Michael Vaughan on Rishabh Pant Rohit Sharma's 161 runs in the first innings powered India to 329 runs. The prolific opener gained nine places after the gritty knock and is now at 14th position, his best since November 2019. Local boy Ravichandran Ashwin's all-round magic at Chepauk saw him jump 14 places to 81st in the list of batsmen after scoring a gritty ton in the second innings. However, he remains seventh among bowlers after grabbing eight wickets in the match. Chennai-based Ashwin gained 33 rating points to reach within three points of sixth-ranked Stuart Broad and to within 21 of second-ranked Neil Wagner. ALSO READ: Jasprit Bumrah most likely to be rested for white-ball series against England: Reports Upward graph for Rishabh Pant continues after young southpaw's 58 not out in the first innings has helped him continue his upward movement and he is now at a career-best 11th position. Kuldeep Yadav returned to 50th rank, whereas, debutant Axar Patel entered the list at 68th place. Patel got a fifer on his maiden Test match. Losing team England had their share of ups and downs in the updated rankings, spinner Jack Leach gained six places to reach 31st position at a career-best 524 points after grabbing six wickets in the match. However, the remainder slipped down in their rankings, including Ben Stokes, who has lost his top position among all-rounders to West Indies' Jason Holder.

Ravichandran Ashwin and Rohit Sharma jump in ICC Test Player Rankings after England win

<p>Ravichandran Ashwin was adjudged the Man of the Match after a splendid performance in the second Test match between India and England, where hosts thrashed the visitors by 317 runs.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-world-test-championship-india-jump-to-2nd-place-after-chennai-test-win-check-updated-points-table-364014" hreflang="en">ICC World Test Championship: India jump to 2nd place after Chennai Test win - Check updated points table</a></p>

<p>The local boy got a&nbsp;hero's reception after scalping eight wickets and scoring a gritty ton in the second innings. While receiving the 'Player of the Match' award, Ashwin said: "I am enjoying my game and am really happy it happened in Chennai. Every load up gives a different result in terms of which way the pitch is behaving."</p>

<p>The 34-year-old went on to bond with the crowd present at the Chepauk Stadium. He shared an anecdote in his native language (Tamil), Ashwin said: "As an eight year old I have come here on these very stands to watch cricket. I have played four Test matches here and easily this is the most special."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-axar-patel-joins-elite-list-after-a-five-wicket-haul-on-debut-363985" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: Axar Patel joins elite list after a five-wicket haul on debut</a></p>

<p>"I get a hero's feeling here playing cricket here. In Covid times this knowledgeable crowd came out in big numbers."</p>

<p>"They were 1-0 without the crowd, and we made it 1-1 with them. Hopefully, we can take it forward."</p>

<p>The impressive win pushed India to the second spot with the win percentage of 69.7 percentage points on the points table. However, another loss could prove fatal for Virat and Co. as they need at least 2-1 or 3-1 win in the series to qualify for the final of the maiden edition of the championship. Both teams are currently levelled at 1-1.&nbsp;</p>


Ravichandran Ashwin was adjudged the Man of the Match after a splendid performance in the second Test match between India and England, where hosts thrashed the visitors by 317 runs.

Ravichandran Ashwin was adjudged the Man of the Match after a splendid performance in the second Test match between India and England, where hosts thrashed the visitors by 317 runs. ALSO READ: ICC World Test Championship: India jump to 2nd place after Chennai Test win - Check updated points table The local boy got a hero's reception after scalping eight wickets and scoring a gritty ton in the second innings. While receiving the 'Player of the Match' award, Ashwin said: "I am enjoying my game and am really happy it happened in Chennai. Every load up gives a different result in terms of which way the pitch is behaving." The 34-year-old went on to bond with the crowd present at the Chepauk Stadium. He shared an anecdote in his native language (Tamil), Ashwin said: "As an eight year old I have come here on these very stands to watch cricket. I have played four Test matches here and easily this is the most special." ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: Axar Patel joins elite list after a five-wicket haul on debut "I get a hero's feeling here playing cricket here. In Covid times this knowledgeable crowd came out in big numbers." "They were 1-0 without the crowd, and we made it 1-1 with them. Hopefully, we can take it forward." The impressive win pushed India to the second spot with the win percentage of 69.7 percentage points on the points table. However, another loss could prove fatal for Virat and Co. as they need at least 2-1 or 3-1 win in the series to qualify for the final of the maiden edition of the championship. Both teams are currently levelled at 1-1.

'As an 8-year-old...': Emotional R Ashwin shares childhood tale about Chepauk stadium

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{d07576a6-2eef-4715-bcf3-78fbdefb1a9d}{29}" paraid="502444429" >Ravichandran Ashwin stole the limelight on an eventful Day 3 of the ongoing second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai as the hosts ended the day on the verge of winning the Test match and&nbsp;equalising&nbsp;the series 1-1.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a60536eb-cae2-4917-8522-9f5f7da124b9}{73}" paraid="163008737" >India, riding on a sensational century by Ashwin and a sublime half-century by Virat Kohli, posted a total of 482 runs. However, England ended up losing&nbsp;three wickets in the final hour of Day 3 with spinners&nbsp;Ashwin and&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel dominating the proceedings with the ball. India could have got the wicket of Dan Lawrence as well but a shoddy 'umpire's call' helped the Englishman survive the final over of the day.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{544472f1-53c9-4638-871b-497ba67d909d}{36}" paraid="616368949" >India, in the second innings, lost openers Rohit Sharma (26) and Shubman Gill (14) early with Cheteshwar Pujara (7) departing after a freak run-out.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{544472f1-53c9-4638-871b-497ba67d909d}{36}" paraid="616368949" ><strong>TRENDING:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-mohammed-sirajs-celebration-wins-hearts-as-r-ashwin-completes-his-5th-test-century-363786" hreflang="en">Watch: Mohammed Siraj's celebration wins hearts as R Ashwin completes his 5th Test century</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{544472f1-53c9-4638-871b-497ba67d909d}{82}" paraid="112441909" >Rishabh Pant (8), Ajinkya Rahane (10) and&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel (7) were also sent back to the hut quickly. However, it was Virat Kohli and Ashwin's resilience and sound technique that helped the duo post some crucial runs on board as they stitched a vital partnership to help India take the game away from England.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{544472f1-53c9-4638-871b-497ba67d909d}{145}" paraid="1966682583" >While England are still in the game with Joe Root and Dan Lawrence unbeaten at the end of Day 3, one can expect the match to wrap up quickly on Day 4 given the kind of form Ashwin and&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;are in.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{afc77d3c-d0b2-4efb-a601-60b9cc1e6b0b}{120}" paraid="349292717" >England, chasing 482, lost Dom Sibley (3) early. The&nbsp;visitors' decision to send&nbsp;nightwatchman&nbsp;Jack Leach backfired as he was sent packing by&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;for a duck.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{afc77d3c-d0b2-4efb-a601-60b9cc1e6b0b}{120}" paraid="349292717" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-is-one-of-the-greatest-stats-prove-it-363775" hreflang="en">Ravichandran Ashwin is one of the greatest - stats prove it!</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{afc77d3c-d0b2-4efb-a601-60b9cc1e6b0b}{168}" paraid="218021945" >Rory Burns once again was dismissed by Ashwin as the southpaw continued his struggle with the willow.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{afc77d3c-d0b2-4efb-a601-60b9cc1e6b0b}{247}" paraid="56438881" >India would be hoping to wrap the proceedings soon on Day 4 and level the series 1-1 after losing the first Test by a mammoth 227-run margin.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{afc77d3c-d0b2-4efb-a601-60b9cc1e6b0b}{177}" paraid="1498896358" >&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{afc77d3c-d0b2-4efb-a601-60b9cc1e6b0b}{142}" paraid="1484891651" >&nbsp;</p>


Ravichandran Ashwin stole the limelight on an eventful Day 3 of the ongoing second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai as the hosts ended the day on the verge of winning the Test match and equalising the series 1-1.

Ravichandran Ashwin stole the limelight on an eventful Day 3 of the ongoing second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai as the hosts ended the day on the verge of winning the Test match and equalising the series 1-1. India, riding on a sensational century by Ashwin and a sublime half-century by Virat Kohli, posted a total of 482 runs. However, England ended up losing three wickets in the final hour of Day 3 with spinners Ashwin and Axar Patel dominating the proceedings with the ball. India could have got the wicket of Dan Lawrence as well but a shoddy 'umpire's call' helped the Englishman survive the final over of the day. India, in the second innings, lost openers Rohit Sharma (26) and Shubman Gill (14) early with Cheteshwar Pujara (7) departing after a freak run-out. TRENDING: Watch: Mohammed Siraj's celebration wins hearts as R Ashwin completes his 5th Test century Rishabh Pant (8), Ajinkya Rahane (10) and Axar Patel (7) were also sent back to the hut quickly. However, it was Virat Kohli and Ashwin's resilience and sound technique that helped the duo post some crucial runs on board as they stitched a vital partnership to help India take the game away from England. While England are still in the game with Joe Root and Dan Lawrence unbeaten at the end of Day 3, one can expect the match to wrap up quickly on Day 4 given the kind of form Ashwin and Axar are in. England, chasing 482, lost Dom Sibley (3) early. The visitors' decision to send nightwatchman Jack Leach backfired as he was sent packing by Axar for a duck. ALSO READ: Ravichandran Ashwin is one of the greatest - stats prove it! Rory Burns once again was dismissed by Ashwin as the southpaw continued his struggle with the willow. India would be hoping to wrap the proceedings soon on Day 4 and level the series 1-1 after losing the first Test by a mammoth 227-run margin.

IND vs ENG 2nd Test: R Ashwin steals show on Day 3 as India stand on verge of leveling series

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c04996d5-174d-450e-8808-5681cbaf361b}{46}" paraid="1386200077" >Ravichandran Ashwin is one of the greatest spin bowlers of all-time but the veteran spinner once again displayed why he is also a sound batsman to have in the lower-order as he smashed a cracking century on a 'dustbowl' during the second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram in Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{09a65524-5e39-4d76-bdc4-e255dfe20c64}{89}" paraid="2100501666" >The crowd at the&nbsp;Chepauk, Ashwin's local ground, celebrated in joy as the 34-year-old capped off a scintillating display with the bat to bring up his&nbsp;fifth Test century after edging a Moeen Ali delivery towards the third-man boundary. With his century on Monday, Ashwin surpassed the likes of Gary Sobers, Jacques Kallis, Shakib Al Hasan and Mushtaq Mohammad to achieve a fifer and a century.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{72f76ebe-b5b3-4f5f-8442-eba8e8460049}{25}" paraid="591340808" >While Sobers, Kallis, Shakib, Mushtaq all had achieved the unique double of a fifer and a century in Test cricket twice,&nbsp;Ashwin with his century and heroic effort with the ball in the second Test against England in Chennai, has now completed the feat thrice. Only Ian Botham had achieved the landmark five times in his Test career.&nbsp;</p>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{ee26b74c-55c7-4082-87ed-b24d5a53303b}{194}" paraid="1156965325" >Century + Fifer in a Test match&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{ee26b74c-55c7-4082-87ed-b24d5a53303b}{200}" paraid="280795385" >Ian Botham - 5 times&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{ee26b74c-55c7-4082-87ed-b24d5a53303b}{203}" paraid="1233648391" ><em><strong>Ravi Ashwin - 3 times*&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{ee26b74c-55c7-4082-87ed-b24d5a53303b}{206}" paraid="1818223000" >Gary Sobers - 2 times&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{ee26b74c-55c7-4082-87ed-b24d5a53303b}{209}" paraid="1103117743" >Jacques Kallis - 2 times&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{ee26b74c-55c7-4082-87ed-b24d5a53303b}{212}" paraid="889915432" >Shakib Al Hasan - 2 times&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{ee26b74c-55c7-4082-87ed-b24d5a53303b}{215}" paraid="413205790" >Mushtaq Mohammad - 2 times&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{ee26b74c-55c7-4082-87ed-b24d5a53303b}{215}" paraid="413205790" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-mohammed-sirajs-celebration-wins-hearts-as-r-ashwin-completes-his-5th-test-century-363786" hreflang="en">Watch: Mohammed Siraj's celebration wins hearts as R Ashwin completes his 5th Test century</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A 5-wicket haul followed by an excellent 💯 for the 3rd time in a Test!<br />
<br />
The magnificent <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> has brought up his 5th Test century and his first in Chennai. What a game is the local hero having. 🤩💪🏾 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://t.co/dUni7KkLYc">pic.twitter.com/dUni7KkLYc</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1361253143808405505?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Chennai pitch had received plenty of criticism from some of the former England players, namely Michael Vaughan and Matt Prior, but Ashwin's batting left them red-faced as the Indian veteran showed great resilience and grit along with good batting technique to play out the likes of Moeen Ali and Jack Leach.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ruthless performance by <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> !!! India have so many more skilled players for these conditions .. High class .. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a></p>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1361254141994147842?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ashwin first took a century and a fifer in Test cricket in 2011 against West Indies. In 2016, Ashwin repeated the same feat against West Indies before completing the milestone for the third time in his Test career, against England in Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-ball-starts-to-turn-sunil-gavaskar-hammers-critics-for-slamming-chennai-pitch-in-2nd-test-363703" hreflang="en">'When ball starts to turn...': Sunil Gavaskar hammers critics for slamming Chennai pitch in 2nd Test</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{15db00cc-9acb-42e0-b77f-d8928897548a}{230}" paraid="1392247902" >Interestingly, Ashwin also became the second Tamil Nadu player to score a Test century at&nbsp;Chepauk&nbsp;after&nbsp;Krisnamachari&nbsp;Srikkanth, who had smashed 123 runs against Pakistan in 1986/87.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c04996d5-174d-450e-8808-5681cbaf361b}{83}" paraid="1035631275" >Ashwin had a bit of dip when it comes to his batting form and quality but the veteran played a heroic knock against Australia in the recently concluded tour as he along with Hanuma Vihari defied all the odds to help India draw the Sydney Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c04996d5-174d-450e-8808-5681cbaf361b}{83}" paraid="1035631275" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravi-ashwin-overtakes-harbhajan-singh-in-elite-list-after-dismissing-ben-stokes-363543" hreflang="en">Ravichandran Ashwin overtakes Harbhajan Singh in elite list after dismissing Ben Stokes</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a1a81b91-93af-4f5f-90ae-3c480d9d1674}{30}" paraid="1511742596" >Ashwin has scalped 386 Test wicket while scoring 2507 runs in the longest format of the game. The 34-year-old&nbsp;continues to cement his legacy as one of the greatest in the world of cricket.&nbsp;</p>


Ravichandran Ashwin is one of the greatest spin bowlers of all-time but the veteran spinner once again displayed why he is also a sound batsman to have in the lower-order as he smashed a cracking century on a 'dustbowl' during the second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram in Chennai.

Ravichandran Ashwin is one of the greatest spin bowlers of all-time but the veteran spinner once again displayed why he is also a sound batsman to have in the lower-order as he smashed a cracking century on a 'dustbowl' during the second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram in Chennai. The crowd at the Chepauk, Ashwin's local ground, celebrated in joy as the 34-year-old capped off a scintillating display with the bat to bring up his fifth Test century after edging a Moeen Ali delivery towards the third-man boundary. With his century on Monday, Ashwin surpassed the likes of Gary Sobers, Jacques Kallis, Shakib Al Hasan and Mushtaq Mohammad to achieve a fifer and a century. While Sobers, Kallis, Shakib, Mushtaq all had achieved the unique double of a fifer and a century in Test cricket twice, Ashwin with his century and heroic effort with the ball in the second Test against England in Chennai, has now completed the feat thrice. Only Ian Botham had achieved the landmark five times in his Test career. Century + Fifer in a Test match Ian Botham - 5 times Ravi Ashwin - 3 times* Gary Sobers - 2 times Jacques Kallis - 2 times Shakib Al Hasan - 2 times Mushtaq Mohammad - 2 times ALSO READ: Watch: Mohammed Siraj's celebration wins hearts as R Ashwin completes his 5th Test century A 5-wicket haul followed by an excellent 💯 for the 3rd time in a Test! The magnificent @ashwinravi99 has brought up his 5th Test century and his first in Chennai. What a game is the local hero having. 🤩💪🏾 #TeamIndia #INDvENG @Paytm pic.twitter.com/dUni7KkLYc — BCCI (@BCCI) February 15, 2021 × The Chennai pitch had received plenty of criticism from some of the former England players, namely Michael Vaughan and Matt Prior, but Ashwin's batting left them red-faced as the Indian veteran showed great resilience and grit along with good batting technique to play out the likes of Moeen Ali and Jack Leach. Ruthless performance by @ashwinravi99 !!! India have so many more skilled players for these conditions .. High class .. #INDvENG — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) February 15, 2021 × Ashwin first took a century and a fifer in Test cricket in 2011 against West Indies. In 2016, Ashwin repeated the same feat against West Indies before completing the milestone for the third time in his Test career, against England in Chennai. ALSO READ: 'When ball starts to turn...': Sunil Gavaskar hammers critics for slamming Chennai pitch in 2nd Test Interestingly, Ashwin also became the second Tamil Nadu player to score a Test century at Chepauk after Krisnamachari Srikkanth, who had smashed 123 runs against Pakistan in 1986/87. Ashwin had a bit of dip when it comes to his batting form and quality but the veteran played a heroic knock against Australia in the recently concluded tour as he along with Hanuma Vihari defied all the odds to help India draw the Sydney Test. ALSO READ: Ravichandran Ashwin overtakes Harbhajan Singh in elite list after dismissing Ben Stokes Ashwin has scalped 386 Test wicket while scoring 2507 runs in the longest format of the game. The 34-year-old continues to cement his legacy as one of the greatest in the world of cricket.

Ravichandran Ashwin is one of the greatest - stats prove it!

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{51ffcb26-8df0-4871-aad1-496073a1f491}{239}" paraid="117578722" >As Ravichandran Ashwin completed his fifth Test century in the ongoing second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, non-striker Mohammed Siraj celebrated&nbsp;by jumping and fist-pumping on air as the video of his celebration went viral on social media platforms.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{fab7d872-b6c7-48ca-b919-242d8c2f64d3}{93}" paraid="1594278059" >Siraj ground out 12 deliveries before Ashwin got to his fifth Test century in what were some nervy moments for not only Ashwin but also for the entire crowd at&nbsp;Chepauk.&nbsp;The Indian pacer had to face the likes of Moeen Ali and Jack Leach on a turning track on Day 3 of the ongoing Chennai Test but ground out the balls to survive.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c0186f13-54f2-4eb0-a6e9-8642540da799}{86}" paraid="1050878294" >Ashwin took a while to get to his century but Siraj made sure to not lose his wickets as it would have denied Ashwin a well-deserved century on a challenging track. However, Ashwin got to his century after a mistimed shot as a thick edge beat the slips to race towards the boundary rope towards the third-man region.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{51ffcb26-8df0-4871-aad1-496073a1f491}{248}" paraid="2006917155" >While Indian players and staff gave a rousing ovation to Ashwin from the dressing room, it was Siraj's celebration that caught the eyes of netizens.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{51ffcb26-8df0-4871-aad1-496073a1f491}{248}" paraid="2006917155" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-is-one-of-the-greatest-stats-prove-it-363775" hreflang="en">Ravichandran Ashwin is one of the greatest - stats prove it!</a></strong></p>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{51ffcb26-8df0-4871-aad1-496073a1f491}{248}" paraid="2006917155" >Here's how social media reacted to Mohammed Siraj's celebration after Ashwin's century in Chennai:</h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The way Siraj celebrated the hundred of Ashwin makes him so special. <a href="https://t.co/hYJcEda89y">pic.twitter.com/hYJcEda89y</a></p>
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1361253763923668993?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A moment to cherish forever! <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> gets his Test💯 in Chennai and Md. Siraj erupts in joy. The dressing room stands up to applaud.🙌🏾 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@paytm</a> <a href="https://t.co/ykrBhsiTbl">pic.twitter.com/ykrBhsiTbl</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1361260111902072832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Oh man look at Siraj ❤<br />
<br />
This team is ❤❤❤❤ <a href="https://t.co/LpucU4kwhJ">pic.twitter.com/LpucU4kwhJ</a></p>
— jd (@j_dhillon7) <a href="https://twitter.com/j_dhillon7/status/1361253947172745218?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Siraj's reaction to Ashwin's hundred is wonderful ❤<br />
<br />
Maybe his teammates do like him after all.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/BS9MGFG37C">pic.twitter.com/BS9MGFG37C</a></p>
— Wisden (@WisdenCricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/WisdenCricket/status/1361260791681470473?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thats-how-you-bat-on-dustbowl-twitter-explodes-after-kohli-ashwin-register-50s-on-beach-chennai-pitch-363725" hreflang="en">'That's how you bat on dustbowl': Twitter explodes after Kohli, Ashwin register 50s on 'beach' Chennai pitch</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{611c08ee-94bf-47a8-9fbf-b05065f6257c}{1}" paraid="2100501666" >With his century on Monday, Ashwin surpassed the likes of Gary Sobers, Jacques Kallis, Shakib Al Hasan and Mushtaq Mohammad to achieve a fifer and a century.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{72f76ebe-b5b3-4f5f-8442-eba8e8460049}{25}" paraid="591340808" >While Sobers, Kallis, Shakib, Mushtaq all had achieved the unique double of a fifer and a century in Test cricket twice,&nbsp;Ashwin with his century and heroic effort with the ball in the second Test against England in Chennai, has now completed the feat thrice. Only Ian Botham had achieved the landmark five times in his Test career.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a1a81b91-93af-4f5f-90ae-3c480d9d1674}{30}" paraid="1511742596" >Meanwhile, England need 482 runs to win the second Test in Chennai but with the conditions&nbsp;favouring&nbsp;Indian bowlers, a series&nbsp;equaliser&nbsp;is on the cards.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>


As Ravichandran Ashwin completed his fifth Test century in the ongoing second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, non-striker Mohammed Siraj celebrated by jumping and fist-pumping on air as the video of his celebration went viral on social media platforms.

As Ravichandran Ashwin completed his fifth Test century in the ongoing second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, non-striker Mohammed Siraj celebrated by jumping and fist-pumping on air as the video of his celebration went viral on social media platforms. Siraj ground out 12 deliveries before Ashwin got to his fifth Test century in what were some nervy moments for not only Ashwin but also for the entire crowd at Chepauk. The Indian pacer had to face the likes of Moeen Ali and Jack Leach on a turning track on Day 3 of the ongoing Chennai Test but ground out the balls to survive. Ashwin took a while to get to his century but Siraj made sure to not lose his wickets as it would have denied Ashwin a well-deserved century on a challenging track. However, Ashwin got to his century after a mistimed shot as a thick edge beat the slips to race towards the boundary rope towards the third-man region. While Indian players and staff gave a rousing ovation to Ashwin from the dressing room, it was Siraj's celebration that caught the eyes of netizens. ALSO READ: Ravichandran Ashwin is one of the greatest - stats prove it! Here's how social media reacted to Mohammed Siraj's celebration after Ashwin's century in Chennai: The way Siraj celebrated the hundred of Ashwin makes him so special. pic.twitter.com/hYJcEda89y — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 15, 2021 × A moment to cherish forever! @ashwinravi99 gets his Test💯 in Chennai and Md. Siraj erupts in joy. The dressing room stands up to applaud.🙌🏾 #TeamIndia #INDvENG @paytm pic.twitter.com/ykrBhsiTbl — BCCI (@BCCI) February 15, 2021 × Oh man look at Siraj ❤ This team is ❤❤❤❤ pic.twitter.com/LpucU4kwhJ — jd (@j_dhillon7) February 15, 2021 × Siraj's reaction to Ashwin's hundred is wonderful ❤ Maybe his teammates do like him after all.#INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/BS9MGFG37C — Wisden (@WisdenCricket) February 15, 2021 × ALSO READ: 'That's how you bat on dustbowl': Twitter explodes after Kohli, Ashwin register 50s on 'beach' Chennai pitch With his century on Monday, Ashwin surpassed the likes of Gary Sobers, Jacques Kallis, Shakib Al Hasan and Mushtaq Mohammad to achieve a fifer and a century. While Sobers, Kallis, Shakib, Mushtaq all had achieved the unique double of a fifer and a century in Test cricket twice, Ashwin with his century and heroic effort with the ball in the second Test against England in Chennai, has now completed the feat thrice. Only Ian Botham had achieved the landmark five times in his Test career. Meanwhile, England need 482 runs to win the second Test in Chennai but with the conditions favouring Indian bowlers, a series equaliser is on the cards.

Watch: Mohammed Siraj's celebration wins hearts as R Ashwin completes his 5th Test century

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{42bd6529-2c93-4bbb-9fc6-20dcd9c80915}{116}" paraid="680433239" >Indian skipper Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin on Monday produced batting masterclass on a 'beach' Chennai pitch as the duo scored&nbsp;a half-century each to extend India's lead in the second innings to over 350 runs.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{635f0909-63d2-4df5-b4a7-b363cce1e1c6}{192}" paraid="711106217" >While England batsmen were outplayed by the Indian bowlers on Day 2, Ashwin and Kohli showed the visitors how to bat on a 'rank turner' as the duo tackled the English spin duo of Jack Leach and Moeen Ali with ease.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{9fd72db8-250f-4fa4-81d2-da620e5d962e}{68}" paraid="1577851888" >With former England cricketers such as Michael Vaughan and Matt Prior&nbsp;criticising&nbsp;the Chennai pitch on Day 2 of the match after England were bowled out for a paltry 134,&nbsp;the Indian batters, especially Kohli and Ashwin produced batting of the highest caliber to register their respective half-century.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{9fd72db8-250f-4fa4-81d2-da620e5d962e}{68}" paraid="1577851888" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-ball-starts-to-turn-sunil-gavaskar-hammers-critics-for-slamming-chennai-pitch-in-2nd-test-363703" hreflang="en">'When ball starts to turn...': Sunil Gavaskar hammers critics for slamming Chennai pitch in 2nd Test</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">He may not get a 100 but this <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> innings has been an masterclass on this pitch ... its already 100 balls of batting that all coaches should show players on how to play on a Beach ... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsENG</a></p>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1361208244258103302?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It’s entertaining cricket as things are happening all the time but let’s be honest this Pitch is a shocker .. Not making any excuses as India have been better but this isn’t a Test Match 5 day prepared Pitch ... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a></p>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1360843448639778818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Twitterati celebrated half-centuries of Kohli and Ashwin as India look on verge of winning the second Test to&nbsp;equalise&nbsp;the series 1-1.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-gives-thumbs-up-to-top-team-india-363684" hreflang="en">Pakistan PM Imran Khan gives thumbs up to 'top team' India</a></strong></p>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a4c37608-d81b-4dc3-a8c5-da75ccfa279b}{26}" paraid="1977482560" >Here's how Twitterati reacted to the half-century by Kohli and Ashwin</h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">He’s the greatest batter in the game of cricket playing right now - <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a>!<br />
<br />
England didn’t pick their best team so can’t complain.<br />
<br />
Missing Jimmy, BIG TIME!</p>
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1361210956991369216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sometimes in Test Cricket a 50 you make in challenging conditions and situation will be more satisfying than a 200 you make on a flat pitch. I am sure this is one such innings for <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> A master class on how to play on a turning track. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/8NYs7fTMAk">pic.twitter.com/8NYs7fTMAk</a></p>
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1361213759889416196?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Fifty in second innings in first Test.<br />
Fifty in second innings in second Test.<br />
<br />
Both was tough pitch to bat on and best of the best stands tall for India - Virat Kohli.</p>
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1361210930525179907?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Kohli is majestic. This is a masterclass in how to bat on a ploughed field. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a></p>
— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) <a href="https://twitter.com/piersmorgan/status/1361207061128839168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Appreciation tweet for Ash Anna</p>
— A (@_shortarmjab_) <a href="https://twitter.com/_shortarmjab_/status/1361211855209852931?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ash Anna giving English team their own medicine ' sweep and reverse sweep ' . <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pitch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pitch</a> <a href="https://t.co/13XNXRw50B">pic.twitter.com/13XNXRw50B</a></p>
— Kushal Gowda (@Kushalg77328189) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kushalg77328189/status/1361197641594408962?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ash anna showing england batsman how to bat on turners rather than crying <a href="https://t.co/Od7in2K9xw">pic.twitter.com/Od7in2K9xw</a></p>
— Siddarth (@Adelaide__141) <a href="https://twitter.com/Adelaide__141/status/1361216705171656706?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Not only did Kohli and Ashwin shut critics of the Chennai pitch with their&nbsp;quality batting display, former Indian skipper Sunil Gavaskar also lashed out at the critics for&nbsp;unnecessary&nbsp;slamming the quality of the strip in Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{79be3f71-b5d3-4c5d-8e05-87089e22f407}{233}" paraid="1981234176" >"We saw how Rohit Sharma getting 150, and yesterday he was getting close to ball and batting. This criticism (on pitch) is pretty warranted," Gavaskar said on Star Sports.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{79be3f71-b5d3-4c5d-8e05-87089e22f407}{244}" paraid="346886169" >"Some of them are saying that - but you have a seaming pitch in England. Australia&nbsp;get&nbsp;dismissed for 46 - the ball keeps seeming all throughout. No one talks about that. It's always about Indian pitches, and when the ball starts to turn, people pose a problem," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{79be3f71-b5d3-4c5d-8e05-87089e22f407}{223}" paraid="1118768860" >With Kohli and Ashwin still batting, the Indian duo would be looking to convert their 50+ scores to a century to make this Test even more special, moreover in front of the fans.&nbsp;</p>


Indian skipper Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin on Monday produced batting masterclass on a 'beach' Chennai pitch as the duo scored a half-century each to extend India's lead in the second innings to over 350 runs.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin on Monday produced batting masterclass on a 'beach' Chennai pitch as the duo scored a half-century each to extend India's lead in the second innings to over 350 runs. While England batsmen were outplayed by the Indian bowlers on Day 2, Ashwin and Kohli showed the visitors how to bat on a 'rank turner' as the duo tackled the English spin duo of Jack Leach and Moeen Ali with ease. With former England cricketers such as Michael Vaughan and Matt Prior criticising the Chennai pitch on Day 2 of the match after England were bowled out for a paltry 134, the Indian batters, especially Kohli and Ashwin produced batting of the highest caliber to register their respective half-century. ALSO READ: 'When ball starts to turn...': Sunil Gavaskar hammers critics for slamming Chennai pitch in 2nd Test He may not get a 100 but this @imVkohli innings has been an masterclass on this pitch ... its already 100 balls of batting that all coaches should show players on how to play on a Beach ... #INDvsENG — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) February 15, 2021 × It’s entertaining cricket as things are happening all the time but let’s be honest this Pitch is a shocker .. Not making any excuses as India have been better but this isn’t a Test Match 5 day prepared Pitch ... #INDvENG — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) February 14, 2021 × Twitterati celebrated half-centuries of Kohli and Ashwin as India look on verge of winning the second Test to equalise the series 1-1. ALSO READ: Pakistan PM Imran Khan gives thumbs up to 'top team' India Here's how Twitterati reacted to the half-century by Kohli and Ashwin He’s the greatest batter in the game of cricket playing right now - @imVkohli! England didn’t pick their best team so can’t complain. Missing Jimmy, BIG TIME! — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) February 15, 2021 × Sometimes in Test Cricket a 50 you make in challenging conditions and situation will be more satisfying than a 200 you make on a flat pitch. I am sure this is one such innings for @imVkohli A master class on how to play on a turning track. #INDvsENG pic.twitter.com/8NYs7fTMAk — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) February 15, 2021 × Fifty in second innings in first Test. Fifty in second innings in second Test. Both was tough pitch to bat on and best of the best stands tall for India - Virat Kohli. — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 15, 2021 × Kohli is majestic. This is a masterclass in how to bat on a ploughed field. #INDvENG — Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) February 15, 2021 × Appreciation tweet for Ash Anna — A (@_shortarmjab_) February 15, 2021 × Ash Anna giving English team their own medicine ' sweep and reverse sweep ' . #INDvsENG #Pitch pic.twitter.com/13XNXRw50B — Kushal Gowda (@Kushalg77328189) February 15, 2021 × Ash anna showing england batsman how to bat on turners rather than crying pic.twitter.com/Od7in2K9xw — Siddarth (@Adelaide__141) February 15, 2021 × Not only did Kohli and Ashwin shut critics of the Chennai pitch with their quality batting display, former Indian skipper Sunil Gavaskar also lashed out at the critics for unnecessary slamming the quality of the strip in Chennai. "We saw how Rohit Sharma getting 150, and yesterday he was getting close to ball and batting. This criticism (on pitch) is pretty warranted," Gavaskar said on Star Sports. "Some of them are saying that - but you have a seaming pitch in England. Australia get dismissed for 46 - the ball keeps seeming all throughout. No one talks about that. It's always about Indian pitches, and when the ball starts to turn, people pose a problem," he added. With Kohli and Ashwin still batting, the Indian duo would be looking to convert their 50+ scores to a century to make this Test even more special, moreover in front of the fans.

'That's how you bat on dustbowl': Twitter explodes after Kohli, Ashwin register 50s on 'beach' Chennai pitch

<p>Indian spin wizard Ravichandran Ashwin overtook Harbhajan Singh to become the 2nd highest-wicket wicket-taker in India in Test cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/different-challenges-gambhir-names-2-key-england-batsmen-india-should-watchout-for-363514" hreflang="en">Gambhir names 2 key England batsmen India should watchout for</a></p>

<p>The Chennai-based off-spinner achieved this feat after removing Ben Stokes on the second day of the ongoing Test match at Chepauk Stadium.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ball-of-the-century-virat-kohli-left-stunned-by-moeen-ali-ripper-363338" hreflang="en">Watch: Ball of the century? Virat Kohli left stunned by Moeen Ali ripper</a></p>

<p>Ashwin now has 266 wickets to his name and second to Anil Kumble, who has 350 wickets in his tally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ravichandran Ashwin took advantage of the slow pitch and scalped four wickets before Tea on Day 2 of the match. England are down to 106 for 8 as they come to bat in the third session of Day 2, as they trail by 223 runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ashwin removed in-form Dominic Sibley, Daniel Lawrence, Ben Stokes and Olly Stone.&nbsp;</p>


Indian spin wizard Ravichandran Ashwin overtook Harbhajan Singh to become the 2nd highest-wicket wicket-taker in India in Test cricket. ALSO READ: Gambhir names 2 key England batsmen India should watchout for The Chennai-based off-spinner achieved this feat after removing Ben Stokes on the second day of the ongoing Test match at Chepauk Stadium.

Indian spin wizard Ravichandran Ashwin overtook Harbhajan Singh to become the 2nd highest-wicket wicket-taker in India in Test cricket. ALSO READ: Gambhir names 2 key England batsmen India should watchout for The Chennai-based off-spinner achieved this feat after removing Ben Stokes on the second day of the ongoing Test match at Chepauk Stadium. ALSO READ: Watch: Ball of the century? Virat Kohli left stunned by Moeen Ali ripper Ashwin now has 266 wickets to his name and second to Anil Kumble, who has 350 wickets in his tally. Ravichandran Ashwin took advantage of the slow pitch and scalped four wickets before Tea on Day 2 of the match. England are down to 106 for 8 as they come to bat in the third session of Day 2, as they trail by 223 runs. Ashwin removed in-form Dominic Sibley, Daniel Lawrence, Ben Stokes and Olly Stone.

Ravi Ashwin overtakes Harbhajan Singh in elite list after dismissing Ben Stokes

<p>Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has been deemed fit to play the second Test match against England, as per news agency PTI's report. The next match will begin on Saturday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vvs-laxman-urges-for-more-commitment-from-ajinkya-rahane-and-rohit-sharma-362800" hreflang="en">VVS Laxman urges for more 'commitment' from Ajinkya Rahane and Rohit Sharma</a></p>

<p>Ravichandran Ashwin was hit by Jofra Archer's short ball during the second innings for the first Test and needed immediate medical attention from the physio Nitin Patel. However, the report suggested that the Chennai-based off-spinner is doing fine and did not need to go for precautionary scans.</p>

<p>This news comes as a relief for Virat Kohli as India is set to lock horns with England in the second Test match on Saturday. The match will be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the previous match, Ashwin was India's best bowling performer in Chennai as he scalped nine wickets in both the innings (three in first and six in second innings).</p>

<p>After a crushing defeat in the first Test, there are some changes expected to take place for the next match. One of them being, all-rounder Axar Patel, who will replace Shabaz Nadeem and debut for India.&nbsp;</p>


Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has been deemed fit to play the second Test match against England, as per news agency PTI's report. The next match will begin on Saturday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has been deemed fit to play the second Test match against England, as per news agency PTI's report. The next match will begin on Saturday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. ALSO READ: VVS Laxman urges for more 'commitment' from Ajinkya Rahane and Rohit Sharma Ravichandran Ashwin was hit by Jofra Archer's short ball during the second innings for the first Test and needed immediate medical attention from the physio Nitin Patel. However, the report suggested that the Chennai-based off-spinner is doing fine and did not need to go for precautionary scans. This news comes as a relief for Virat Kohli as India is set to lock horns with England in the second Test match on Saturday. The match will be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. In the previous match, Ashwin was India's best bowling performer in Chennai as he scalped nine wickets in both the innings (three in first and six in second innings). After a crushing defeat in the first Test, there are some changes expected to take place for the next match. One of them being, all-rounder Axar Patel, who will replace Shabaz Nadeem and debut for India.

Ravichandran Ashwin fit to play second Test against England: Reports

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a8f5ad90-8385-4ef5-a9c2-7294eebbc65c}{231}" paraid="1458239709" >Ravichandran Ashwin on Monday joined an exclusive list of spinners to have picked up a wicket off the first ball of the&nbsp;innings&nbsp;as the veteran Indian spinner dismissed England opener Rory Burns in the first delivery of the second innings, on Day 4&nbsp;of the first&nbsp;Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c2c086cb-3f8b-406a-809b-21af761b5fea}{130}" paraid="1739995515" >The incident of a spinner getting a wicket off the first ball of an innings happened for the first time in since 1907 with South Africa's Bert Vogler being the last spinner to have achieved the feat&nbsp;against England at the Oval after he dismissed England's Tom Hayward.</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{9f83cce4-3318-46bd-a795-4fdd46c0cfb6}{158}" paraid="827291587" >The other incident of a spinner scalping a wicket off the first ball of an innings was way back in 1988 when Bobby Peel dismissed Alec Bannerman off the first ball of the second innings in the third Test at the Old Trafford during the Ashes.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{9f83cce4-3318-46bd-a795-4fdd46c0cfb6}{158}" paraid="827291587" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pants-heartfelt-gesture-after-uttarakhand-glacier-burst-wins-hearts-362086" hreflang="en">Rishabh Pant's heartfelt gesture after Uttarakhand glacier burst wins hearts</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{55d897a4-513a-4a04-966d-f2f2c6a2aa5e}{36}" paraid="645714852" >Ashwin was handed the new ball in the second innings and the 34-year-old didn't disappoint as he found the edge of Burns’ bat&nbsp;to achieve the unique record and etch his name in the history books.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{8d3a8801-d19f-438f-8b4e-1378f90c6f2d}{133}" paraid="1662836195" >Meanwhile, England have the edge in the first Test against India in Chennai as the visitors took a resounding first-innings lead of 241 after a poor show with the bat by the Indian team. While stalwarts failed for the hosts, youngsters Rishabh Pant (91) and Washington&nbsp;Sunday (85*) stepped up with the bat and helped India post 337 runs in the first innings.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{8d3a8801-d19f-438f-8b4e-1378f90c6f2d}{133}" paraid="1662836195" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spirit-of-cricket-stuart-broads-cheeky-comment-on-iccs-post-on-virat-kohlis-gesture-towards-joe-root-361972" hreflang="en">'Spirit of cricket?': Stuart Broad's cheeky comment on ICC's post on Virat Kohli's gesture towards Joe Root</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{03fb38d1-433e-4015-b1d6-38b08b0498f9}{91}" paraid="997310121" >England, at Day 4 Lunch, were at 1/1 with a lead of 242. The visitors would be looking to post a good total on board and try and take the game to the Indian team, who haven't lost a Test match on home soil since 2016.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a8f5ad90-8385-4ef5-a9c2-7294eebbc65c}{153}" paraid="764623658" >&nbsp;</p>


Ravichandran Ashwin on Monday joined an exclusive list of spinners to have picked up a wicket off the first ball of the innings as the veteran Indian spinner dismissed England opener Rory Burns in the first delivery of the second innings, on Day 4 of the first Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Ravichandran Ashwin on Monday joined an exclusive list of spinners to have picked up a wicket off the first ball of the innings as the veteran Indian spinner dismissed England opener Rory Burns in the first delivery of the second innings, on Day 4 of the first Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The incident of a spinner getting a wicket off the first ball of an innings happened for the first time in since 1907 with South Africa's Bert Vogler being the last spinner to have achieved the feat against England at the Oval after he dismissed England's Tom Hayward. The other incident of a spinner scalping a wicket off the first ball of an innings was way back in 1988 when Bobby Peel dismissed Alec Bannerman off the first ball of the second innings in the third Test at the Old Trafford during the Ashes. ALSO READ: Rishabh Pant's heartfelt gesture after Uttarakhand glacier burst wins hearts Ashwin was handed the new ball in the second innings and the 34-year-old didn't disappoint as he found the edge of Burns’ bat to achieve the unique record and etch his name in the history books. Meanwhile, England have the edge in the first Test against India in Chennai as the visitors took a resounding first-innings lead of 241 after a poor show with the bat by the Indian team. While stalwarts failed for the hosts, youngsters Rishabh Pant (91) and Washington Sunday (85*) stepped up with the bat and helped India post 337 runs in the first innings. ALSO READ: 'Spirit of cricket?': Stuart Broad's cheeky comment on ICC's post on Virat Kohli's gesture towards Joe Root England, at Day 4 Lunch, were at 1/1 with a lead of 242. The visitors would be looking to post a good total on board and try and take the game to the Indian team, who haven't lost a Test match on home soil since 2016.

First time in more than 100 years! R Ashwin achieves unique feat in Test cricket

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{1f9736ce-2d69-4e40-990b-6e8823fe5bf6}{253}" paraid="1052624209" >India on Monday reached 39/1 at day four stumps after spinner Jack Leach bowled Rohit Sharma for 12 on a deteriorating Chennai track. India, chasing 420, will resume their innings on day five with Shubman Gill&nbsp;(15*)&nbsp;and Cheteshwar Pujara&nbsp;(12*)&nbsp;at the crease.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a2287a5a-a7a9-4209-aa83-807f641ea67a}{211}" paraid="1011680347" >Earlier on the day, Ravichandran Ashwin scalped six wickets to bundle out England for 178 with the visitors setting a target of 420.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{6bea4416-4eaa-47d3-88b0-41a68de02e23}{222}" paraid="425325032" >On a spinner-dominant day, Ashwin picked up his 28th&nbsp;five-wicket haul in England's second innings. The veteran spinner had sent Rory Burns back in the first ball of the innings before striking crucial blows including Ben Stokes.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{6204e653-e095-443c-b64e-d492e1e1e316}{59}" paraid="1284280907" >England skipper Joe Root continued his rich run of form as he scored 40 off 32 balls. He hit 218 in the first innings in what is his 100th&nbsp;Test for England.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{6204e653-e095-443c-b64e-d492e1e1e316}{59}" paraid="1284280907" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/first-time-in-more-than-100-years-r-ashwin-achieves-unique-feat-in-test-cricket-362103" hreflang="en">First time in more than 100 years! R Ashwin achieves unique feat in Test cricket</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4bce0a80-1f5a-4786-b75b-8d0dc65f9c0f}{84}" paraid="61577738" >Root was trapped&nbsp;lbw&nbsp;by speedster Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;but had done the damage with seven boundaries. Ollie Pope (28) and Dom Bess (25) helped England extend their lead.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{df7dba21-b733-4b27-80af-267f7879c047}{179}" paraid="701482526" >Indian spinner Shahbaz Nadeem grabbed two wickets while Dan Lawrence was Ishant Sharma's 300th&nbsp;Test wicket.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{f87a3a3d-0497-4db6-be12-633d0ff595f5}{69}" paraid="2127280947" >Commenting on the achievement, Ishant said: "It's been quite a roller-coaster life. I've had a lot of experience, a lot of mentors who taught me how to bowl in the subcontinent and how to bowl abroad. I'm a bit sore, after bowling 4-over bursts in domestic cricket, and then bowling 35 overs within a gap of just 3-4 days.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{f87a3a3d-0497-4db6-be12-633d0ff595f5}{69}" paraid="2127280947" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/300-test-wickets-ishant-sharma-joins-elusive-list-as-he-achieves-iconic-landmark-362128" hreflang="en">300 Test wickets! Ishant Sharma joins elusive list as he achieves iconic landmark</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{86ab043b-4072-459a-9d0f-5ffcabf575a1}{160}" paraid="1875241867" >"If we get a good start tomorrow, we can chase this down, because we have a batting line-up that is fearless and can chase this down, and it's important to look at 381 runs and not 9 wickets. On the first two days, the pitch was not assisting us and the spinners, it felt like we played on a road, but it started turning later on in Day 4 and it was a lot more responsive then."&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{0b25a4bb-6b99-4046-9c55-31137ea88e8c}{119}" paraid="1841348241" >India&nbsp;were&nbsp;bundled out for 337 in their first innings – 42 runs short of&nbsp;avoiding&nbsp;the follow on – despite Washington Sundar's stylish unbeaten 85.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{2cb56fa2-5368-45a6-bea4-b97a5cd17c9f}{73}" paraid="1031098558" >England, who scored 578 in the first innings, decided against enforcing the follow-on. India, on day 5, need another&nbsp;381 runs to win.</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{1f9736ce-2d69-4e40-990b-6e8823fe5bf6}{38}" paraid="387036667" >&nbsp;</p>


India on Monday reached 39/1 at day four stumps after spinner Jack Leach bowled Rohit Sharma for 12 on a deteriorating Chennai track. India, chasing 420, will resume their innings on day five with Shubman Gill (15*) and Cheteshwar Pujara (12*) at the crease.

India on Monday reached 39/1 at day four stumps after spinner Jack Leach bowled Rohit Sharma for 12 on a deteriorating Chennai track. India, chasing 420, will resume their innings on day five with Shubman Gill (15*) and Cheteshwar Pujara (12*) at the crease. Earlier on the day, Ravichandran Ashwin scalped six wickets to bundle out England for 178 with the visitors setting a target of 420. On a spinner-dominant day, Ashwin picked up his 28th five-wicket haul in England's second innings. The veteran spinner had sent Rory Burns back in the first ball of the innings before striking crucial blows including Ben Stokes. England skipper Joe Root continued his rich run of form as he scored 40 off 32 balls. He hit 218 in the first innings in what is his 100th Test for England. ALSO READ: First time in more than 100 years! R Ashwin achieves unique feat in Test cricket Root was trapped lbw by speedster Jasprit Bumrah but had done the damage with seven boundaries. Ollie Pope (28) and Dom Bess (25) helped England extend their lead. Indian spinner Shahbaz Nadeem grabbed two wickets while Dan Lawrence was Ishant Sharma's 300th Test wicket. Commenting on the achievement, Ishant said: "It's been quite a roller-coaster life. I've had a lot of experience, a lot of mentors who taught me how to bowl in the subcontinent and how to bowl abroad. I'm a bit sore, after bowling 4-over bursts in domestic cricket, and then bowling 35 overs within a gap of just 3-4 days. ALSO READ: 300 Test wickets! Ishant Sharma joins elusive list as he achieves iconic landmark "If we get a good start tomorrow, we can chase this down, because we have a batting line-up that is fearless and can chase this down, and it's important to look at 381 runs and not 9 wickets. On the first two days, the pitch was not assisting us and the spinners, it felt like we played on a road, but it started turning later on in Day 4 and it was a lot more responsive then." India were bundled out for 337 in their first innings – 42 runs short of avoiding the follow on – despite Washington Sundar's stylish unbeaten 85. England, who scored 578 in the first innings, decided against enforcing the follow-on. India, on day 5, need another 381 runs to win.

IND vs ENG, Day 4: England on top as India need another 381 runs to win

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{77513420-6d8b-41e5-9847-86f1d5bbab84}{120}" paraid="294957113" >Ajinkya Rahane's terrific captaincy record has started discussions on captaincy style with fans and&nbsp;former cricketers comparing his leadership traits with full-time Indian captain Virat Kohli. While Rahane led Team India to a historic&nbsp;Test series win over Australia recently, Kohli will be back in-charge in the home series against England. A crucial cog in&nbsp;the&nbsp;Indian side, Ravichandran Ashwin&nbsp;has now opened up about the captaincy style between Kohli and Rahane.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{77513420-6d8b-41e5-9847-86f1d5bbab84}{137}" paraid="419055757" >Rahane's calm and composed demeanour was lauded by many while his aggressive bowling and fielding changes&nbsp;helped India come back to the series to win it 2-1. However, Kohli's&nbsp;'in&nbsp;your face' and expressive approach have helped India win&nbsp;33 Test matches out of 56 in which Kohli has led Team India.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{252ce9e7-2c5f-44db-b94d-350034d6b528}{123}" paraid="850116591" >Ashwin, talking about Rahane and Kohli's captaincy, said that a captain and his achievements can be only good as the team while adding the Indian cricket team, in the past, has enjoyed great results due to quality players in the dressing room.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{d32f7057-8b8a-45c3-a329-759676fe0cb5}{37}" paraid="544093567" >The veteran Indian spinner further said there is not much difference in the duo's captaincy style. Ashwin said that while Kohli is more expressive&nbsp;and communicative, Rahane is much quieter than him.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{d32f7057-8b8a-45c3-a329-759676fe0cb5}{37}" paraid="544093567" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-swashbuckling-rishabh-pant-decimated-australia-at-the-gabba-357703" hreflang="en">How swashbuckling Rishabh Pant decimated Australia at the Gabba</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{77513420-6d8b-41e5-9847-86f1d5bbab84}{145}" paraid="593383535" >"Rahane has led India in about five Tests and Kohli much more and that’s the first difference. I am totally blown away by the kind of comparisons people like to make when it comes to captaincy. All along it was about MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli and their styles of leadership. People just want to pick on it and just talk about it because it makes the headlines,” Ashwin told The New Indian Express.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{801ed0ba-ba52-480e-8d3a-909bed41623d}{90}" paraid="1329048688" >While Kohli has a brilliant win percentage of 58.92 as a Test captain after leading India in 56 Tests including 33 wins, 13 defeats and 10 draws;&nbsp;Rahane is yet to lose a match as Indian Test captain after leading the side in five Tests with four wins and one draw.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{801ed0ba-ba52-480e-8d3a-909bed41623d}{98}" paraid="643278369" >"Personally, I feel that as a captain your achievements can only be as good as the team that you get. I feel this Indian team has had some wonderful results in the past because of quality players and human beings in the dressing room. Virat and Rahane have been captain and vice-captain for as long as I can remember now. They lend great balance to the team,” Ashwin said.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{801ed0ba-ba52-480e-8d3a-909bed41623d}{98}" paraid="643278369" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-disrespectful-kevin-pietersen-lashes-out-on-englands-possible-xi-against-india-359060" hreflang="en">'It’s disrespectful': Kevin Pietersen lashes out on England's possible XI against India</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{cb1205fb-ceaf-4052-88ce-d59c1c6d0027}{196}" paraid="200247224" >"As soon as Virat left, it was just an extension and nobody had to tell Jinks how things had to be operated and it was an automatic transition that happened. For me, it was an extension of what’s been happening in the last 5 years. We have played under Jinks in the Dharamshala Test (Against Oz in 2017) and then the Test against Afghanistan and we know what to expect. When the players know what to expect, things get a lot easier. I wouldn’t say there is a distinct difference in their style of captaincy. It's just the people they are. Virat is more expressive, communicative and in your face while Jinks doesn’t do these three things. But the way they captain the side is pretty much similar,” the 34-year-old who picked up 12 wickets in three Tests in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21 added.&nbsp;</p>


Ajinkya Rahane's terrific captaincy record has started discussions on captaincy style with fans and former cricketers comparing his leadership traits with full-time Indian captain Virat Kohli.

Ajinkya Rahane's terrific captaincy record has started discussions on captaincy style with fans and former cricketers comparing his leadership traits with full-time Indian captain Virat Kohli. While Rahane led Team India to a historic Test series win over Australia recently, Kohli will be back in-charge in the home series against England. A crucial cog in the Indian side, Ravichandran Ashwin has now opened up about the captaincy style between Kohli and Rahane. Rahane's calm and composed demeanour was lauded by many while his aggressive bowling and fielding changes helped India come back to the series to win it 2-1. However, Kohli's 'in your face' and expressive approach have helped India win 33 Test matches out of 56 in which Kohli has led Team India. Ashwin, talking about Rahane and Kohli's captaincy, said that a captain and his achievements can be only good as the team while adding the Indian cricket team, in the past, has enjoyed great results due to quality players in the dressing room. The veteran Indian spinner further said there is not much difference in the duo's captaincy style. Ashwin said that while Kohli is more expressive and communicative, Rahane is much quieter than him. ALSO READ: How swashbuckling Rishabh Pant decimated Australia at the Gabba "Rahane has led India in about five Tests and Kohli much more and that’s the first difference. I am totally blown away by the kind of comparisons people like to make when it comes to captaincy. All along it was about MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli and their styles of leadership. People just want to pick on it and just talk about it because it makes the headlines,” Ashwin told The New Indian Express. While Kohli has a brilliant win percentage of 58.92 as a Test captain after leading India in 56 Tests including 33 wins, 13 defeats and 10 draws; Rahane is yet to lose a match as Indian Test captain after leading the side in five Tests with four wins and one draw. "Personally, I feel that as a captain your achievements can only be as good as the team that you get. I feel this Indian team has had some wonderful results in the past because of quality players and human beings in the dressing room. Virat and Rahane have been captain and vice-captain for as long as I can remember now. They lend great balance to the team,” Ashwin said. ALSO READ: 'It’s disrespectful': Kevin Pietersen lashes out on England's possible XI against India "As soon as Virat left, it was just an extension and nobody had to tell Jinks how things had to be operated and it was an automatic transition that happened. For me, it was an extension of what’s been happening in the last 5 years. We have played under Jinks in the Dharamshala Test (Against Oz in 2017) and then the Test against Afghanistan and we know what to expect. When the players know what to expect, things get a lot easier. I wouldn’t say there is a distinct difference in their style of captaincy. It's just the people they are. Virat is more expressive, communicative and in your face while Jinks doesn’t do these three things. But the way they captain the side is pretty much similar,” the 34-year-old who picked up 12 wickets in three Tests in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21 added.

How are Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane different as captains? R Ashwin gives his take

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{976c73df-59ea-4452-9ae9-f6921000107f}{190}" paraid="1723299451" >Team India's historic Test series win against Australia will be celebrated for ages.&nbsp;While the Ajinkya Rahane-led side won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1,&nbsp;the Indian team had to face numerous challenges during the series including quarantine restrictions, injuries to key players among other things.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a197b7c7-2d20-474b-9161-14270092cbf0}{102}" paraid="1811549845" >India started off the Test series with a humiliating defeat in Adelaide where the visitors were bundled off for a record-low of 36. However, showing great grit and resilience, the Indian team bounced back to win the Melbourne Test, draw Sydney Test and end the series by breaching Australia's fortress the Gabba.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{ae789ac2-d83a-4131-9542-4845043b86d9}{160}" paraid="1263128164" >While the wins in Melbourne and Gabba will be remembered for long, the heroic show in Sydney will never be forgotten by the Indian fans.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{80869b4d-afcb-46fc-8b91-3e9514eb82e6}{231}" paraid="1981340239" >During a conversation with India's fielding coach R Sridhar, Ravichandran Ashwin, in his YouTube channel, revealed an interesting yet hilarious incident involving Shardul Thakur.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{80869b4d-afcb-46fc-8b91-3e9514eb82e6}{231}" paraid="1981340239" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-father-is-a-farmer-and-all-our-life-we-are-taught-to-keep-trying-shardul-thakur-358521" hreflang="en">'My father is a farmer and all our life we are taught to keep trying': Shardul Thakur</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{03d59725-e6b2-4c78-a037-505e50d9e38f}{192}" paraid="1328579028" >While Ravichandran Ashwin, with a sore back, and Hanuma Vihari, with a torn hamstring, were battling out to save the Sydney Test on Day 5, Indian team management sent bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur to the ground to pass on a message for the duo in the middle.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7ef9f08a-fbd3-4b68-8c68-1b58bd6abc08}{244}" paraid="984069920" >The full conversation between Ravichandran Ashwin and R Sridhar on Shardul Thakur conveying the message from the dressing room:</h2>

<p><strong>Ashwin</strong>: Already I was padded up and standing from the morning because of my back pain. And then suddenly there was talk of Jadeja batting. And then suddenly Shastri came and said 'Ash, go!' After I went in, there were multiple messages from Shastri. Take us through those.</p>

<p><strong>Sridhar</strong>: At one end, the bounce was a bit uneven and you got hit. We were worried about two things - one, a batsman getting out. And two, if Ash was injured, there was only Ravi Shastri left to play! Lot of things at stake, so he sent a message through Shardul.</p>

<p>He called for Shardul and said 'go tell Ashwin that I told him to play Lyon and Vihari to play the pacers'.</p>

<p><strong>Ashwin</strong>: We were oblivious to it. We were keeping on playing the same way, and Vihari came and said Ash I'm feeling a bit distracting, so let's rotate strike for a couple of overs. And we got a single. Vihari played off-spin, and after an over, he came and said I'm unable to move my feet! Somehow we survived.</p>

<p>Shardul came running in and said "they're talking a lot of things inside. But I won't tell you anything! You both are playing well, just continue!" We were wondering what kind of a message this is.</p>

<p><strong>Sridhar</strong>: And we were thinking he conveyed the message to you guys! And then every ball became an event. You batted till tea, and then we started believing. We had 249 balls, and Shastri would say 'Shabash' after every ball.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hanuma-vihari-talks-about-ravichandran-ashwins-struggles-during-the-sydney-test-358506" hreflang="en">Hanuma Vihari talks about Ravichandran Ashwin's struggles during the Sydney Test</a></strong></p>

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<p>Ashwin and Vihari, battling injuries, defied all the odds to remain unbeaten on Day 5 of the Sydney Test to help India draw the Test. Courtesy the drawn Sydney Test, the series remained at 1-1 which also gave a window to the Indian team to go for the kill in Brisbane as they won the&nbsp;Test series 2-1.&nbsp;</p>


Team India's historic Test series win against Australia will be celebrated for ages. While the Ajinkya Rahane-led side won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1, the Indian team had to face numerous challenges during the series including quarantine restrictions, injuries to key players among other things.

Team India's historic Test series win against Australia will be celebrated for ages. While the Ajinkya Rahane-led side won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1, the Indian team had to face numerous challenges during the series including quarantine restrictions, injuries to key players among other things. India started off the Test series with a humiliating defeat in Adelaide where the visitors were bundled off for a record-low of 36. However, showing great grit and resilience, the Indian team bounced back to win the Melbourne Test, draw Sydney Test and end the series by breaching Australia's fortress the Gabba. While the wins in Melbourne and Gabba will be remembered for long, the heroic show in Sydney will never be forgotten by the Indian fans. During a conversation with India's fielding coach R Sridhar, Ravichandran Ashwin, in his YouTube channel, revealed an interesting yet hilarious incident involving Shardul Thakur. ALSO READ: 'My father is a farmer and all our life we are taught to keep trying': Shardul Thakur While Ravichandran Ashwin, with a sore back, and Hanuma Vihari, with a torn hamstring, were battling out to save the Sydney Test on Day 5, Indian team management sent bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur to the ground to pass on a message for the duo in the middle. The full conversation between Ravichandran Ashwin and R Sridhar on Shardul Thakur conveying the message from the dressing room: Ashwin: Already I was padded up and standing from the morning because of my back pain. And then suddenly there was talk of Jadeja batting. And then suddenly Shastri came and said 'Ash, go!' After I went in, there were multiple messages from Shastri. Take us through those. Sridhar: At one end, the bounce was a bit uneven and you got hit. We were worried about two things - one, a batsman getting out. And two, if Ash was injured, there was only Ravi Shastri left to play! Lot of things at stake, so he sent a message through Shardul. He called for Shardul and said 'go tell Ashwin that I told him to play Lyon and Vihari to play the pacers'. Ashwin: We were oblivious to it. We were keeping on playing the same way, and Vihari came and said Ash I'm feeling a bit distracting, so let's rotate strike for a couple of overs. And we got a single. Vihari played off-spin, and after an over, he came and said I'm unable to move my feet! Somehow we survived. Shardul came running in and said "they're talking a lot of things inside. But I won't tell you anything! You both are playing well, just continue!" We were wondering what kind of a message this is. Sridhar: And we were thinking he conveyed the message to you guys! And then every ball became an event. You batted till tea, and then we started believing. We had 249 balls, and Shastri would say 'Shabash' after every ball. ALSO READ: Hanuma Vihari talks about Ravichandran Ashwin's struggles during the Sydney Test × Ashwin and Vihari, battling injuries, defied all the odds to remain unbeaten on Day 5 of the Sydney Test to help India draw the Test. Courtesy the drawn Sydney Test, the series remained at 1-1 which also gave a window to the Indian team to go for the kill in Brisbane as they won the Test series 2-1.

'Just continue!': When Shardul Thakur didn't convey Ravi Shastri's message to Vihari and Ashwin in Sydney

<p>Hanuma Vihari and Ravichandran Ashwin's brave partnership in the third Test against Australia helped India escape the jaws of defeat at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Both batsmen stood their ground and faced the onslaught of Australian bowlers to manage a draw for the visitors.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-the-great-batsman-or-a-mediocre-captain-bishan-singh-bedi-opines-358468" hreflang="en">'Virat Kohli the great batsman or a mediocre captain?': Bishan Singh Bedi opines</a></p>

<p>Vihari revealed the struggles of his partner (R Ashwin) during the match and gave the reason why the Chennai-based did not duck the bouncers bowled by Australia's world-class pace attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an interview with Sports Today, Vihari said: “Funny thing happened, I asked Ashwin if he could flex his knees a little so that he could bend. And he said ‘if I bend my knees, I can’t bat because my back is gone’. That’s why he was standing up to the bouncers.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hanuma-vihari-reveals-rahul-dravids-message-after-sydney-heroics-358303" hreflang="en">Hanuma Vihari reveals Rahul Dravid's message after Sydney heroics</a></p>

<p>“On a serious note, the way he batted out was superb. Because of his spasm, he couldn’t sit down, he stood throughout the innings. While he was starting to bat on Day 5, he was always standing in the dressing room as well. So that was his situation and to bat out for 4 hours is a compliment to his grit and determination,” Hanuma Vihari told Sports Today.</p>

<p>The duo stitched a 62-run partnership in 259 balls despite Vihari sustaining a serious hamstring injury during his innings and Ashwin suffering severe backache.</p>

<p>“The only thing that helped us was they bowled a lot of overs. But I wouldn’t say they were tired. The close-in fielders don’t help as well. You’re always under pressure. Only a small mistake and you’re gone. But like I said, as I was not able to run, I will play as close to the body as possible. I am not looking for runs. So, the basics helped there. The technique which I developed over the years helped me. That defensive technique helped me.</p>

<p>“Ashwin was also communicating in different languages if you could hear. Like he was talking to me in Tamil, Telugu, trying to make sure we survive. It’s important to communicate as well. Sometimes, we are scoring runs, you’ll be in your own zone. But when you’re looking to survive, that’s where the help came. Ash did that brilliantly with all his experience," he said.</p>


Hanuma Vihari and Ravichandran Ashwin's brave partnership in the third Test against Australia helped India escape the jaws of defeat at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Hanuma Vihari and Ravichandran Ashwin's brave partnership in the third Test against Australia helped India escape the jaws of defeat at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Both batsmen stood their ground and faced the onslaught of Australian bowlers to manage a draw for the visitors. ALSO READ: 'Virat Kohli the great batsman or a mediocre captain?': Bishan Singh Bedi opines Vihari revealed the struggles of his partner (R Ashwin) during the match and gave the reason why the Chennai-based did not duck the bouncers bowled by Australia's world-class pace attack. In an interview with Sports Today, Vihari said: “Funny thing happened, I asked Ashwin if he could flex his knees a little so that he could bend. And he said ‘if I bend my knees, I can’t bat because my back is gone’. That’s why he was standing up to the bouncers. ALSO READ: Hanuma Vihari reveals Rahul Dravid's message after Sydney heroics “On a serious note, the way he batted out was superb. Because of his spasm, he couldn’t sit down, he stood throughout the innings. While he was starting to bat on Day 5, he was always standing in the dressing room as well. So that was his situation and to bat out for 4 hours is a compliment to his grit and determination,” Hanuma Vihari told Sports Today. The duo stitched a 62-run partnership in 259 balls despite Vihari sustaining a serious hamstring injury during his innings and Ashwin suffering severe backache. “The only thing that helped us was they bowled a lot of overs. But I wouldn’t say they were tired. The close-in fielders don’t help as well. You’re always under pressure. Only a small mistake and you’re gone. But like I said, as I was not able to run, I will play as close to the body as possible. I am not looking for runs. So, the basics helped there. The technique which I developed over the years helped me. That defensive technique helped me. “Ashwin was also communicating in different languages if you could hear. Like he was talking to me in Tamil, Telugu, trying to make sure we survive. It’s important to communicate as well. Sometimes, we are scoring runs, you’ll be in your own zone. But when you’re looking to survive, that’s where the help came. Ash did that brilliantly with all his experience," he said.

Hanuma Vihari talks about Ravichandran Ashwin's struggles during the Sydney Test

<p>England captain Joe Root and India wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant have made considerable gains in the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings&nbsp;after their match-winning performances in the Galle and Brisbane Tests respectively.</p>

<p>Root, a formerly top-ranked batsman, has returned to the top five with his highest rating points tally (738) in two years after scoring a first-innings 228 to help win the first Test against Sri Lanka by seven wickets. Root has advanced six places, overtaking the likes of Pakistan’s Babar Azam and India’s Cheteshwar Pujara in the process.</p>

<p>Left-hander Pant’s unbeaten 89 on the last day in Brisbane that guided India to a sensational three-wicket victory over Australia, sees him attain a career-best 13th&nbsp;position to become the top-ranked wicketkeeper in the batting rankings. South Africa’s Quinton de Kock is the next wicketkeeper in the list in 15th&nbsp;position.</p>

<p>Performances in the classic Test in Brisbane resulted in quite a few other interesting changes as well.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-thanks-bcci-on-successful-tour-salutes-team-indias-courage-and-skill-357897" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill'</a></strong></p>

<p>Australia batsman Marnus Labuschagne’s first-innings century took him past Virat Kohli to third position with a career-best 878 rating points, captain Tim Paine moved up three spots to 42nd&nbsp;after scores of 50 and 27 while fast bowler Josh Hazlewood leapfrogged New Zealander Tim Southee to the fourth spot after grabbing six wickets in the match, including a haul of five for 57 in the first innings.</p>

<p>For India, Shubman Gill continued his upward trajectory, moving from 68th&nbsp;to 47th&nbsp;after a crucial 91 in the second innings, Pujara progressed one place to seventh position after his dogged effort and Mohammad Siraj jumped 32 places to 45th&nbsp;position after taking six wickets in the match, including a five-wicket haul in the second innings.</p>

<p>Debutant Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur too had something to cheer about after useful efforts with both bat and ball. Sundar entered the rankings in 82nd&nbsp;(batting) and 97th&nbsp;(bowling) positions, while Thakur reentered the batting list in 113th&nbsp;position and the bowling list in 65th&nbsp;position.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chennai-super-kings-release-harbhajan-singh-ahead-of-ipl-2021-mini-auction-357900" hreflang="en">Chennai Super Kings release Harbhajan Singh ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction</a></strong></p>

<p>England spinners Jack Leach and Dominic Bess made notable progress after their five-wicket hauls in Galle. Leach’s second innings return of five for 122 lifted him three places to 40th&nbsp;while Bess’s first innings analysis of five for 30 took him from 67th&nbsp;to 50th. Jonny Bairstow (up five places to 58th&nbsp;in batting) and Sam Curran (up two places to 39th&nbsp;in bowling) also gained.</p>

<p>For Sri Lanka, Lahiru Thirimanne’s second innings century helped him progress 12 places to 87th&nbsp;position while left-arm spinner Lasith Embuldeniya (up six places to 47th) and medium-pace bowler Asitha Fernando (up 11 places to 96th) were the main gainers.</p>


England captain Joe Root and India wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant have made considerable gains in the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings after their match-winning performances in the Galle and Brisbane Tests respectively.

England captain Joe Root and India wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant have made considerable gains in the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings after their match-winning performances in the Galle and Brisbane Tests respectively. Root, a formerly top-ranked batsman, has returned to the top five with his highest rating points tally (738) in two years after scoring a first-innings 228 to help win the first Test against Sri Lanka by seven wickets. Root has advanced six places, overtaking the likes of Pakistan’s Babar Azam and India’s Cheteshwar Pujara in the process. Left-hander Pant’s unbeaten 89 on the last day in Brisbane that guided India to a sensational three-wicket victory over Australia, sees him attain a career-best 13th position to become the top-ranked wicketkeeper in the batting rankings. South Africa’s Quinton de Kock is the next wicketkeeper in the list in 15th position. Performances in the classic Test in Brisbane resulted in quite a few other interesting changes as well. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill' Australia batsman Marnus Labuschagne’s first-innings century took him past Virat Kohli to third position with a career-best 878 rating points, captain Tim Paine moved up three spots to 42nd after scores of 50 and 27 while fast bowler Josh Hazlewood leapfrogged New Zealander Tim Southee to the fourth spot after grabbing six wickets in the match, including a haul of five for 57 in the first innings. For India, Shubman Gill continued his upward trajectory, moving from 68th to 47th after a crucial 91 in the second innings, Pujara progressed one place to seventh position after his dogged effort and Mohammad Siraj jumped 32 places to 45th position after taking six wickets in the match, including a five-wicket haul in the second innings. Debutant Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur too had something to cheer about after useful efforts with both bat and ball. Sundar entered the rankings in 82nd (batting) and 97th (bowling) positions, while Thakur reentered the batting list in 113th position and the bowling list in 65th position. ALSO READ: Chennai Super Kings release Harbhajan Singh ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction England spinners Jack Leach and Dominic Bess made notable progress after their five-wicket hauls in Galle. Leach’s second innings return of five for 122 lifted him three places to 40th while Bess’s first innings analysis of five for 30 took him from 67th to 50th. Jonny Bairstow (up five places to 58th in batting) and Sam Curran (up two places to 39th in bowling) also gained. For Sri Lanka, Lahiru Thirimanne’s second innings century helped him progress 12 places to 87th position while left-arm spinner Lasith Embuldeniya (up six places to 47th) and medium-pace bowler Asitha Fernando (up 11 places to 96th) were the main gainers.

ICC Test Rankings: Rishabh Pant, Joe Root touch new high after epic shows

<p>Sri Lanka's spin wizard Muttiah Muralitharan is the only bowler in the history of Test cricket to scalp 800 wickets. Former Lankan legend achieved this feat after dismissing Pragyan Ojha at Galle in 2010, which was also his final Test match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ten years since the record and no bowler has neared the record. However, in the current generation, India's Ravichandran Ashwin and Australia's Nathan Lyon have had a prolific career in Test cricket for their respective countries. When asked on who could break this record, Muralitharan replied that India's R Ashwin has a chance at it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Will anyone reach to 800 wickets? Ashwin has a chance because he is a great bowler," Muralitharan told the Sydney Morning Herald. "Other than that, I don't think any younger bowler coming in will go to 800. Maybe Nathan Lyon is not good enough to reach it. He is close to 400 but he has had to play many, many matches to get there."</p>

<p>Muralitharan went on to explain why there may not be another golden era in spin cricket in Tests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The problem in Test cricket is that Twenty20s and one-day internationals have changed the dynamics. When I played, the batsmen were technically so good and wickets were flat; now, they try to finish matches in three days," the former off-spinner added.</p>

<p>"The bowlers in my day had to do extra work to get spin and do something magic to get results. Nowadays, if you bowl line and length over a period of time, you will get five wickets. It is guaranteed because batsmen cannot stay for long without attacking.</p>

<p>"You have a better chance of taking wickets, which is why spinners only have to set the field properly, bowl line and length and let the pitches and batsmen do the rest. Spinners used to have to work hard for wickets, which is why they worked hard on developing other deliveries. Now they do that in T20 cricket instead. They bowl different variations because batsmen are coming after them. But in Test cricket you don't need to do it."</p>


Sri Lanka's spin wizard Muttiah Muralitharan is the only bowler in the history of Test cricket to scalp 800 wickets. Former Lankan legend achieved this feat after dismissing Pragyan Ojha at Galle in 2010, which was also his final Test match.

Sri Lanka's spin wizard Muttiah Muralitharan is the only bowler in the history of Test cricket to scalp 800 wickets. Former Lankan legend achieved this feat after dismissing Pragyan Ojha at Galle in 2010, which was also his final Test match. Ten years since the record and no bowler has neared the record. However, in the current generation, India's Ravichandran Ashwin and Australia's Nathan Lyon have had a prolific career in Test cricket for their respective countries. When asked on who could break this record, Muralitharan replied that India's R Ashwin has a chance at it. "Will anyone reach to 800 wickets? Ashwin has a chance because he is a great bowler," Muralitharan told the Sydney Morning Herald. "Other than that, I don't think any younger bowler coming in will go to 800. Maybe Nathan Lyon is not good enough to reach it. He is close to 400 but he has had to play many, many matches to get there." Muralitharan went on to explain why there may not be another golden era in spin cricket in Tests. "The problem in Test cricket is that Twenty20s and one-day internationals have changed the dynamics. When I played, the batsmen were technically so good and wickets were flat; now, they try to finish matches in three days," the former off-spinner added. "The bowlers in my day had to do extra work to get spin and do something magic to get results. Nowadays, if you bowl line and length over a period of time, you will get five wickets. It is guaranteed because batsmen cannot stay for long without attacking. "You have a better chance of taking wickets, which is why spinners only have to set the field properly, bowl line and length and let the pitches and batsmen do the rest. Spinners used to have to work hard for wickets, which is why they worked hard on developing other deliveries. Now they do that in T20 cricket instead. They bowl different variations because batsmen are coming after them. But in Test cricket you don't need to do it."

Will anyone reach to 800 Test wickets? Sri Lankan legend Muttiah Muralitharan opines

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{ebcb1c19-77f4-4a6f-95c9-a6eabdbd40fa}{34}" paraid="1022404536" >Indian cricketer Hanuma Vihari on Wednesday shut&nbsp;down Member of Parliament Babul Supriyo after an absurd tweet by the playback singer. Supriyo, after India’s drawn Test in Sydney, had blamed Vihari for not sealing India’s win and forcing it for a draw after a slow knock.&nbsp;Importantly, Supriyo even&nbsp;misspelt&nbsp;Vihari’s name as ‘Hanuma Bihari’ which infuriated the fans further.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{0b3edc4b-ab44-457c-a352-0827f3b9c376}{32}" paraid="480874897" >After the Sydney Test when the entire world was hailing the efforts of Vihari and Ashwin, Babul Supriyo’s tweet took the fans by shock.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{07d0da45-4ad1-4926-a59e-36159622efcc}{172}" paraid="144462798" >While Supriyo was central to major criticism by the fans, Hanuma Vihari on Wednesday took to Twitter to shut Supriyo with an impactful reply.&nbsp;Vihari’s reply went viral in a jiffy as fans lauded the Indian batsman and the hero of Sydney Test for shutting Supriyo.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{fc45f170-8f5e-43d7-b2e3-042689e2753b}{218}" paraid="15474828" >“Playing 109 balls to score 7 !That is atrocious to say the&nbsp;least•Hanuma&nbsp;Bihari has not only killed any Chance for India to achieve a historic win but has also murdered&nbsp;Cricket..&nbsp;not keeping win an option, even if remotely, is criminal. PS: I know that I know nothing&nbsp;abt&nbsp;cricket,” Supriyo had tweeted after the drawn Sydney Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{fc45f170-8f5e-43d7-b2e3-042689e2753b}{218}" paraid="15474828" >To which the Indian batsman replied to simply correct the spelling of his name: "*Hanuma Vihari".</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{fc45f170-8f5e-43d7-b2e3-042689e2753b}{218}" paraid="15474828" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-intervention-helps-team-india-get-swimming-pool-gym-housekeeping-staff-access-in-brisbane-356423" hreflang="en">BCCI intervention helps Team India get swimming pool, gym, housekeeping staff access in Brisbane</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="et">*Hanuma Vihari</p>
— Hanuma vihari (@Hanumavihari) <a href="https://twitter.com/Hanumavihari/status/1349285961994182662?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Another hero of Sydney Test, Ravichandran Ashwin also posted a screenshot of the conversation and enjoyed the cracking reply by the Indian batsman.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-3rd-test-bruised-and-broken-but-sydney-was-conquered-356068" hreflang="en">Bruised and broken but Sydney was 'conquered'</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="ht">ROFLMAX!! 😂😂😂 <a href="https://t.co/gIHpngYg3E">pic.twitter.com/gIHpngYg3E</a></p>
— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1349305502312763392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Fans enjoyed Vihari's response as most of them said it was the greatest reply of the new year.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Tweet of 2021.</p>
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1349290553129668611?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://t.co/yzebfJNSZq">pic.twitter.com/yzebfJNSZq</a></p>
— Sarang Bhalerao (@bhaleraosarang) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhaleraosarang/status/1349310550316994565?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://t.co/iX26WLJrSQ">pic.twitter.com/iX26WLJrSQ</a></p>
— Vinesh Prabhu (@vlp1994) <a href="https://twitter.com/vlp1994/status/1349289201120866304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Killed him in 1 tweet.</p>
— Abhinandan Nahata (@cricketgyani_an) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketgyani_an/status/1349288875298934784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">KING!</p>
— Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) <a href="https://twitter.com/FarziCricketer/status/1349288397123190784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://t.co/l607PsWMzX">pic.twitter.com/l607PsWMzX</a></p>
— Kaushik (@iamnowayfunny) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamnowayfunny/status/1349288887424745472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">King Hanuma 💙💙🔥 <a href="https://t.co/K6u0o7D6Hu">pic.twitter.com/K6u0o7D6Hu</a></p>
— Circuit 🏏 Expert (@Being_circuit) <a href="https://twitter.com/Being_circuit/status/1349289815775215618?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Indian cricket team, in the third Test against Australia in Sydney, achieved what has been hailed as one of the greatest draws in the history of Test cricket. With an injury-ravaged squad, the Indian team&nbsp;batted for 131 overs to save the Sydney Test. While the likes of&nbsp;Cheteshwar&nbsp;Pujara and Rishabh Pant started the great escape, Hanuma Vihari and Ravichandran Ashwin were the&nbsp;orchestrators for the visitors.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{dfcce635-b923-4047-8ff7-bac80df45e0c}{209}" paraid="1031886034" >Vihari, who suffered a grade 2 tear in his hamstring, batted for around 3 hours and helped India save the Sydney Test from an almost impossible situation. To his plight,&nbsp;Vihari was even unable to walk properly when he was&nbsp;stitching&nbsp;the heroic partnership with Ashwin.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{69274a5f-339c-4080-8455-3a9a8c73ff29}{101}" paraid="362019735" >Even Ashwin had a back spasm and was even unable to tie his shoelaces or even sit properly during Day 5 of the Sydney Test. But the duo, despite being hit several times on their body by the world-class Australian bowling attack, continued to bat for the sake of their country and team.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{0b3edc4b-ab44-457c-a352-0827f3b9c376}{127}" paraid="1425923190" >Due to Ashwin and Vihari’s enormous effort, India drew the Sydney Test and kept the series alive at 1-1.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c0469b7f-91d3-4fe9-87df-2980fd557e48}{68}" paraid="1728017172" >India and Australia will now lock horns in the fourth and final Test, scheduled to start from January 15, at The Gabba in Brisbane.&nbsp;</p>


Indian cricketer Hanuma Vihari on Wednesday shut down Member of Parliament Babul Supriyo after an absurd tweet by the playback singer. Supriyo, after India’s drawn Test in Sydney, had blamed Vihari for not sealing India’s win and forcing it for a draw after a slow knock.

Indian cricketer Hanuma Vihari on Wednesday shut down Member of Parliament Babul Supriyo after an absurd tweet by the playback singer. Supriyo, after India’s drawn Test in Sydney, had blamed Vihari for not sealing India’s win and forcing it for a draw after a slow knock. Importantly, Supriyo even misspelt Vihari’s name as ‘Hanuma Bihari’ which infuriated the fans further. After the Sydney Test when the entire world was hailing the efforts of Vihari and Ashwin, Babul Supriyo’s tweet took the fans by shock. While Supriyo was central to major criticism by the fans, Hanuma Vihari on Wednesday took to Twitter to shut Supriyo with an impactful reply. Vihari’s reply went viral in a jiffy as fans lauded the Indian batsman and the hero of Sydney Test for shutting Supriyo. “Playing 109 balls to score 7 !That is atrocious to say the least•Hanuma Bihari has not only killed any Chance for India to achieve a historic win but has also murdered Cricket.. not keeping win an option, even if remotely, is criminal. PS: I know that I know nothing abt cricket,” Supriyo had tweeted after the drawn Sydney Test. To which the Indian batsman replied to simply correct the spelling of his name: "*Hanuma Vihari". ALSO READ: BCCI intervention helps Team India get swimming pool, gym, housekeeping staff access in Brisbane *Hanuma Vihari — Hanuma vihari (@Hanumavihari) January 13, 2021 × Another hero of Sydney Test, Ravichandran Ashwin also posted a screenshot of the conversation and enjoyed the cracking reply by the Indian batsman. ALSO READ: Bruised and broken but Sydney was 'conquered' ROFLMAX!! 😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/gIHpngYg3E — Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) January 13, 2021 × Fans enjoyed Vihari's response as most of them said it was the greatest reply of the new year. Tweet of 2021. — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) January 13, 2021 × pic.twitter.com/yzebfJNSZq — Sarang Bhalerao (@bhaleraosarang) January 13, 2021 × pic.twitter.com/iX26WLJrSQ — Vinesh Prabhu (@vlp1994) January 13, 2021 × Killed him in 1 tweet. — Abhinandan Nahata (@cricketgyani_an) January 13, 2021 × KING! — Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) January 13, 2021 × pic.twitter.com/l607PsWMzX — Kaushik (@iamnowayfunny) January 13, 2021 × King Hanuma 💙💙🔥 pic.twitter.com/K6u0o7D6Hu — Circuit 🏏 Expert (@Being_circuit) January 13, 2021 × The Indian cricket team, in the third Test against Australia in Sydney, achieved what has been hailed as one of the greatest draws in the history of Test cricket. With an injury-ravaged squad, the Indian team batted for 131 overs to save the Sydney Test. While the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara and Rishabh Pant started the great escape, Hanuma Vihari and Ravichandran Ashwin were the orchestrators for the visitors. Vihari, who suffered a grade 2 tear in his hamstring, batted for around 3 hours and helped India save the Sydney Test from an almost impossible situation. To his plight, Vihari was even unable to walk properly when he was stitching the heroic partnership with Ashwin. Even Ashwin had a back spasm and was even unable to tie his shoelaces or even sit properly during Day 5 of the Sydney Test. But the duo, despite being hit several times on their body by the world-class Australian bowling attack, continued to bat for the sake of their country and team. Due to Ashwin and Vihari’s enormous effort, India drew the Sydney Test and kept the series alive at 1-1. India and Australia will now lock horns in the fourth and final Test, scheduled to start from January 15, at The Gabba in Brisbane.

Hanuma Vihari shuts down MP Babul Supriyo as Ashwin goes 'ROFLMAX'

<p>India's stand-in skipper Ajinkya Rahane heaped praise on team's formidable spin duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja for their vital contribution in the Boxing Day Test win against Australia. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-fan-who-attended-the-ind-vs-aus-boxing-day-test-at-mcg-tests-positive-for-covid-19-354850" hreflang="en">A fan who attended the IND vs AUS Boxing Day Test at MCG, tests positive for COVID-19</a></p>

<p>Ashwin removed Smith twice and has toyed with the Aussie several times in the ongoing Test series. The Chennai-based bowler is the leading wicket-taker in the on-going series.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“He [Ashwin] is always looking to learn new things. He has good skills but is always looking to learn new things, and that’s what makes Ashwin great. I hope that he continues for next two Test matches and do the job for us,” said Rahane during a pre-match virtual press conference.</p>

<p>He went on to praise Jadeja for his performance.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-ind-tensions-broil-over-team-india-brisbane-boycott-reports-354805" hreflang="en">AUS vs IND: Tensions broil over Team India Brisbane boycott reports</a></p>

<p>“As a batsman, Ravindra Jadeja has improved a lot and that is a massive point as a team’s perspective. When you know that your number seven can contribute with the bat, that becomes really easy for you to actually get that (decent) total and obviously, in the field, you have seen him taking some brilliant catches,” the stand-in captain said.</p>

<p>“So yes, his addition in the team helped us a lot and he has been really fantastic and it is really great for us,” he further added.</p>

<p>The SCG wicket aids spinners and that’s why Rahane doesn’t want his team to take chances while facing Nathan Lyon.</p>

<p>“Yes, we have good spinners but Nathan Lyon is their quality spinner, who has done well here, so we don’t want to take anybody lightly,” he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;</em></p>


India's stand-in skipper Ajinkya Rahane heaped praise on team's formidable spin duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja for their vital contribution in the Boxing Day Test win against Australia.

India's stand-in skipper Ajinkya Rahane heaped praise on team's formidable spin duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja for their vital contribution in the Boxing Day Test win against Australia. ALSO READ: A fan who attended the IND vs AUS Boxing Day Test at MCG, tests positive for COVID-19 Ashwin removed Smith twice and has toyed with the Aussie several times in the ongoing Test series. The Chennai-based bowler is the leading wicket-taker in the on-going series. “He [Ashwin] is always looking to learn new things. He has good skills but is always looking to learn new things, and that’s what makes Ashwin great. I hope that he continues for next two Test matches and do the job for us,” said Rahane during a pre-match virtual press conference. He went on to praise Jadeja for his performance. ALSO READ: AUS vs IND: Tensions broil over Team India Brisbane boycott reports “As a batsman, Ravindra Jadeja has improved a lot and that is a massive point as a team’s perspective. When you know that your number seven can contribute with the bat, that becomes really easy for you to actually get that (decent) total and obviously, in the field, you have seen him taking some brilliant catches,” the stand-in captain said. “So yes, his addition in the team helped us a lot and he has been really fantastic and it is really great for us,” he further added. The SCG wicket aids spinners and that’s why Rahane doesn’t want his team to take chances while facing Nathan Lyon. “Yes, we have good spinners but Nathan Lyon is their quality spinner, who has done well here, so we don’t want to take anybody lightly,” he said. (With inputs from PTI)

'It is really great for us': Ajinkya Rahane praises spinner duo of Ashwin and Jadeja

<p>Australian batsman Steve Smith, who was also recently named ICC’s Men’s Test Cricketer of the Decade, talked about his struggles against India in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-warner-returns-for-australia-will-the-hitman-formula-to-bolster-team-india-353392" hreflang="en">As Warner returns for Australia, will the 'Hitman' formula bolster Team India?</a></p>

<p>Ravichandran Ashwin has been toying with the Aussie and is preventing him to score runs for the hosts. Smith has scored only 10 runs in 4 innings in the series so far while being dismissed by Ashwin two times.</p>

<p>“I probably haven’t played Ashwin as well as I would’ve liked. I probably would’ve liked to have put him under a bit more pressure,” Smith told SEN Radio.</p>

<p>“I’ve sort of let him dictate terms and that’s something I’ve probably never let any spinner do in my career. I’ve sort of taken it to them, been a bit more aggressive and made them change things,” he said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-biggest-reward-for-us-ajinkya-rahane-posts-heartfelt-message-for-fans-after-mcg-triumph-353371" hreflang="en">'The biggest reward for us...' - Ajinkya Rahane posts heartfelt message for fans after MCG triumph</a></p>

<p>“It’s kind of a two-edged sword in a way, but I think I’ve just got to have the confidence to take it on and play my game,” Smith continued.</p>

<p>“At the moment I’m searching for time in the middle; that’s the most important thing for me. When I look at this year, 64 balls is the longest I’ve spent in the middle, during those one-day games.</p>

<p>Ashwin also spoke about Smith and the importance of his dismissal. “Coming down to Australia and if you cannot get Steven Smith out, it is always going to be an uphill task,” he told Channel 7.</p>

<p>“He pretty much holds the batting line-up together.”</p>


Australian batsman Steve Smith, who was also recently named ICC’s Men’s Test Cricketer of the Decade, talked about his struggles against India in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series.

Australian batsman Steve Smith, who was also recently named ICC’s Men’s Test Cricketer of the Decade, talked about his struggles against India in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series. ALSO READ: As Warner returns for Australia, will the 'Hitman' formula bolster Team India? Ravichandran Ashwin has been toying with the Aussie and is preventing him to score runs for the hosts. Smith has scored only 10 runs in 4 innings in the series so far while being dismissed by Ashwin two times. “I probably haven’t played Ashwin as well as I would’ve liked. I probably would’ve liked to have put him under a bit more pressure,” Smith told SEN Radio. “I’ve sort of let him dictate terms and that’s something I’ve probably never let any spinner do in my career. I’ve sort of taken it to them, been a bit more aggressive and made them change things,” he said. ALSO READ: 'The biggest reward for us...' - Ajinkya Rahane posts heartfelt message for fans after MCG triumph “It’s kind of a two-edged sword in a way, but I think I’ve just got to have the confidence to take it on and play my game,” Smith continued. “At the moment I’m searching for time in the middle; that’s the most important thing for me. When I look at this year, 64 balls is the longest I’ve spent in the middle, during those one-day games. Ashwin also spoke about Smith and the importance of his dismissal. “Coming down to Australia and if you cannot get Steven Smith out, it is always going to be an uphill task,” he told Channel 7. “He pretty much holds the batting line-up together.”

'I’ve let him dictate terms': Steve Smith talks about his trouble in facing Ravichandran Ashwin

<p>Ravichandra Ashwin was one of the fewest players in Team India who had a successful spell during the first Test against Australia in Adelaide. The spin wizard got some crucial wickets for the hosts including in-form batsman Steve Smith.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Ashwin's position was in doubt if Ravindra Jadeja would have been fit for the match. Ravichandran Ashwin has had prolific spinner for India and has been consistent with his performance when the team tours abroad, but his place in the playing XI has always been in doubt. Former batting great Sunil Gavaskar talked about this and said that Ashwin has been the victim for his ‘forthrightness’ and ‘speaking his mind at meetings’.</p>

<p>“For far too long Ashwin has suffered not for his bowling ability of which only the churlish will have doubts, but for his forthrightness and speaking his mind at meetings where most others just nod even if they don’t agree,” Gavaskar wrote in his column for Sportstar.</p>

<p>Ashwin has performed well for India in the longest format. The Chennai-based player has performed both with the bat and bowl.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Any other country would welcome a bowler who has more than 350 Test wickets and not to forget four-Test match centuries, too.</p>

<p>“However, if Ashwin doesn’t take heaps of wickets in one game he is invariably sidelined for the next one. That does not happen to established batsmen though. Even if they fail in one game they get another chance and another and another but for Ashwin, the rules seem to be different,” Gavaskar wrote.</p>


Ravichandra Ashwin was one of the fewest players in Team India who had a successful spell during the first Test against Australia in Adelaide. The spin wizard got some crucial wickets for the hosts including in-form batsman Steve Smith.

Ravichandra Ashwin was one of the fewest players in Team India who had a successful spell during the first Test against Australia in Adelaide. The spin wizard got some crucial wickets for the hosts including in-form batsman Steve Smith. However, Ashwin's position was in doubt if Ravindra Jadeja would have been fit for the match. Ravichandran Ashwin has had prolific spinner for India and has been consistent with his performance when the team tours abroad, but his place in the playing XI has always been in doubt. Former batting great Sunil Gavaskar talked about this and said that Ashwin has been the victim for his ‘forthrightness’ and ‘speaking his mind at meetings’. “For far too long Ashwin has suffered not for his bowling ability of which only the churlish will have doubts, but for his forthrightness and speaking his mind at meetings where most others just nod even if they don’t agree,” Gavaskar wrote in his column for Sportstar. Ashwin has performed well for India in the longest format. The Chennai-based player has performed both with the bat and bowl. “Any other country would welcome a bowler who has more than 350 Test wickets and not to forget four-Test match centuries, too. “However, if Ashwin doesn’t take heaps of wickets in one game he is invariably sidelined for the next one. That does not happen to established batsmen though. Even if they fail in one game they get another chance and another and another but for Ashwin, the rules seem to be different,” Gavaskar wrote.

'Ashwin suffered for his forthrightness and speaking his mind at meetings': Sunil Gavaskar

<p>The Adelaide Test may not have gone as per the plans for the Indian team but there were some positives to take for the visitors despite the crushing eight-wicket defeat to Australia. Ravichandran Ashwin bamboozled the Australian batsmen, including Steve Smith, as he picked up four wickets in the first innings to restrict Australia to just 190 runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Smith, who is one of the finest batsmen of this generation, hailed Ashwin for executing his plans to perfection. Ashwin kept Smith silent during his 29-ball stay at the pitch in the first innings before dismissing him with a ripper. Ashwin bowled a few off-spinners before firing a straighter one to Smith as the Aussie batter edged it to the first slip, where Ajinkya Rahane took a sharp catch.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suresh-raina-guru-randhawa-arrested-and-booked-in-raid-at-mumbai-club-351548" hreflang="en">Suresh Raina, Guru Randhawa arrested and booked in raid at Mumbai club</a></strong></p>

<p>Ahead of the Boxing Day Test, Smith lauded Ashwin while terming him a ‘world-class performer’.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"No (when asked about if his dismissal was a case of preparing too hard for the pace battery of India). I just knicked one that didn't spin; unfortunately that happens sometimes. I thought it was pretty well bowled, to be honest. The two balls prior spun a bit and got a bit grip of the wicket and the next one was kind of side-spin which skidded off. I didn't play as well as I would have liked. It was some decent bowling," Smith said while replying to a query from ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Playing in Australia and playing in India is a bit different; the ball doesn't spin as much as it spins in India. He is a good bowler, he has played a lot of cricket now. He is a world-class performer," he further said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I know he got the better of me the other day; hopefully, I will learn something and move forward and play him a little bit better in the next game," Smith added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/players-will-go-out-new-faces-will-come-in-but-what-about-mr-ravi-shastri-351379" hreflang="en">Players will go out, new faces will come in. But what about Mr Ravi Shastri?</a></strong></p>

<p>Smith admitted that he needs to adapt quickly to spin bowling which India have to offer in the four-match Test series while adding that spinners who do well in Australia are generally the ones who get over the top.</p>

<p>"He tried to bowl from round the wicket and skid it on. It was a good piece of bowling. Part of playing anywhere is adapting," said Smith during a virtual press conference.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I too couldn't bat the same against spinners in India as I do here. You gotta adapt. Spinners that do well here are generally who get over the top," he added.</p>

<p>India head into the Boxing Day Test without Virat Kohli (paternity leave) and Mohammed Shami (injured) with Ajinkya Rahane set to lead the side in the Test, starting December 26 in Melbourne.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The Adelaide Test may not have gone as per the plans for the Indian team but there were some positives to take for the visitors despite the crushing eight-wicket defeat to Australia.

The Adelaide Test may not have gone as per the plans for the Indian team but there were some positives to take for the visitors despite the crushing eight-wicket defeat to Australia. Ravichandran Ashwin bamboozled the Australian batsmen, including Steve Smith, as he picked up four wickets in the first innings to restrict Australia to just 190 runs. Smith, who is one of the finest batsmen of this generation, hailed Ashwin for executing his plans to perfection. Ashwin kept Smith silent during his 29-ball stay at the pitch in the first innings before dismissing him with a ripper. Ashwin bowled a few off-spinners before firing a straighter one to Smith as the Aussie batter edged it to the first slip, where Ajinkya Rahane took a sharp catch. ALSO READ: Suresh Raina, Guru Randhawa arrested and booked in raid at Mumbai club Ahead of the Boxing Day Test, Smith lauded Ashwin while terming him a ‘world-class performer’. "No (when asked about if his dismissal was a case of preparing too hard for the pace battery of India). I just knicked one that didn't spin; unfortunately that happens sometimes. I thought it was pretty well bowled, to be honest. The two balls prior spun a bit and got a bit grip of the wicket and the next one was kind of side-spin which skidded off. I didn't play as well as I would have liked. It was some decent bowling," Smith said while replying to a query from ANI. "Playing in Australia and playing in India is a bit different; the ball doesn't spin as much as it spins in India. He is a good bowler, he has played a lot of cricket now. He is a world-class performer," he further said. "I know he got the better of me the other day; hopefully, I will learn something and move forward and play him a little bit better in the next game," Smith added. ALSO READ: Players will go out, new faces will come in. But what about Mr Ravi Shastri? Smith admitted that he needs to adapt quickly to spin bowling which India have to offer in the four-match Test series while adding that spinners who do well in Australia are generally the ones who get over the top. "He tried to bowl from round the wicket and skid it on. It was a good piece of bowling. Part of playing anywhere is adapting," said Smith during a virtual press conference. "I too couldn't bat the same against spinners in India as I do here. You gotta adapt. Spinners that do well here are generally who get over the top," he added. India head into the Boxing Day Test without Virat Kohli (paternity leave) and Mohammed Shami (injured) with Ajinkya Rahane set to lead the side in the Test, starting December 26 in Melbourne.

'World-class performer': Steve Smith hails Ravichandran Ashwin for terrific display in Adelaide Test

<p>India found themselves on top of Australia in the first innings of the day-night Test at the Adelaide Oval after Ravichandran Ashwin destroyed the Aussie top-order on Day 2 of the match. Ashwin got the big wickets of Steve Smith, Cameron Green and Travis Head to pile misery on the hosts after India posted 244 runs on the board. However, it was Virat Kohli who stole the show with a stunning catch to give Ashwin the wicket of debutant Green.</p>

<p>The incident happened in the 41st over of the Aussie innings when Ashwin bowled a length delivery to Green to which the Aussie youngster wanted to execute a pull shot over the mid-wicket fielder.</p>

<p>However, Green miscued his stroke as the ball travelled to the right side of the mid-wicket fielder – Kohli. The Indian skipper, reacting quickly to the stroke, dived to pull off a stunning catch as Green’s innings was cut short after scoring 11 runs off 24 balls.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/scg-test-on-despite-sydney-covid-19-outbreak-situation-being-monitored-by-cricket-australia-350676" hreflang="en">SCG Test on despite Sydney COVID-19 outbreak, situation being monitored by Cricket Australia</a></strong></p>

<p>Kohli dived full stretch to grab the catch with both his hands and upon completing the screamer, the Indian skipper raised his arms as his teammates ran towards him in joy.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>WATCH VIDEO: Virat Kohli's stunning catch to dismiss Cameron Green</h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Cameron Green's debut innings was stopped short by an absolute classic from Virat Kohli - and the Indian captain enjoyed it a lot! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OhWhatAFeeling?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OhWhatAFeeling</a><a href="https://twitter.com/Toyota_Aus?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@toyota_Aus</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/krXXaZI1at">pic.twitter.com/krXXaZI1at</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1339852557858947072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Green’s dismissal put Australia in trouble as they were down to 79-5. However, since then captain Tim Paine and Marnus Labuschagne stitched a good partnership to take them to 111 runs. Umesh Yadav struck the hammer blow by dismissing Labuschagne for 47.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/adelaide-test-virat-kohli-misses-28th-test-century-as-india-end-day-1-at-2336-350490" hreflang="en">Adelaide Test: Virat Kohli misses 28th Test century as India end Day 1 at 233/6</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, India would be looking to get a good lead going into the second innings and will look to wrap up the Australian lower-order as quickly as possible. Notably, Australia haven’t lost a single day-night Test match and India would be looking to break the deadlock in Adelaide.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


India found themselves on top of Australia in the first innings of the day-night Test at the Adelaide Oval after Ravichandran Ashwin destroyed the Aussie top-order on Day 2 of the match.

India found themselves on top of Australia in the first innings of the day-night Test at the Adelaide Oval after Ravichandran Ashwin destroyed the Aussie top-order on Day 2 of the match. Ashwin got the big wickets of Steve Smith, Cameron Green and Travis Head to pile misery on the hosts after India posted 244 runs on the board. However, it was Virat Kohli who stole the show with a stunning catch to give Ashwin the wicket of debutant Green. The incident happened in the 41st over of the Aussie innings when Ashwin bowled a length delivery to Green to which the Aussie youngster wanted to execute a pull shot over the mid-wicket fielder. However, Green miscued his stroke as the ball travelled to the right side of the mid-wicket fielder – Kohli. The Indian skipper, reacting quickly to the stroke, dived to pull off a stunning catch as Green’s innings was cut short after scoring 11 runs off 24 balls. ALSO READ: SCG Test on despite Sydney COVID-19 outbreak, situation being monitored by Cricket Australia Kohli dived full stretch to grab the catch with both his hands and upon completing the screamer, the Indian skipper raised his arms as his teammates ran towards him in joy. WATCH VIDEO: Virat Kohli's stunning catch to dismiss Cameron Green Cameron Green's debut innings was stopped short by an absolute classic from Virat Kohli - and the Indian captain enjoyed it a lot! #OhWhatAFeeling@toyota_Aus | #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/krXXaZI1at — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 18, 2020 × Green’s dismissal put Australia in trouble as they were down to 79-5. However, since then captain Tim Paine and Marnus Labuschagne stitched a good partnership to take them to 111 runs. Umesh Yadav struck the hammer blow by dismissing Labuschagne for 47. ALSO READ: Adelaide Test: Virat Kohli misses 28th Test century as India end Day 1 at 233/6 Meanwhile, India would be looking to get a good lead going into the second innings and will look to wrap up the Australian lower-order as quickly as possible. Notably, Australia haven’t lost a single day-night Test match and India would be looking to break the deadlock in Adelaide.

Watch: Virat Kohli takes screamer to help Ravichandran Ashwin dismiss Cameron Green

<p>The COVID-19 pandemic has made the entire world come to a stand-still with many countries going under lockdown in a bid to curb the spread of the deadly virus. In India, the positive number of cases surged to 562 on Tuesday and almost every athlete has been urging everyone to stay at their home.</p>

<p>However, veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has been one of the few to remain extremely active on social media platform Twitter in a bid to spread awareness surrounding the COVID-19.</p>

<p>Ashwin on Wednesday gave a hilarious throwback to the much-talked-about incident from IPL 2019 where he had run Englishman Jos Buttler out (Mankad-ed him) in a match between Rajasthan Royals and Kings XI Punjab.&nbsp;The veteran Indian spinner posted a photograph from the incident while urging everyone to take a lesson from it and stay inside your crease, in this case inside your home.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Hahaha, somebody sent me this and told me it's exactly been 1 year since this run out happened. As the nation goes into a lockdown, this is a good reminder to my citizens. Don't wander out. Stay inside, stay safe! #21DayLockdown,” Ashwin captioned the photograph.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Hahaha, somebody sent me this and told me it's exactly been 1 year since this run out happened.<br />
<br />
As the nation goes into a lockdown, this is a good reminder to my citizens.<br />
<br />
Don't wander out. Stay inside, stay safe! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/21DayLockdown?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#21DayLockdown</a> <a href="https://t.co/bSN1454kFt">pic.twitter.com/bSN1454kFt</a></p>
— lets stay indoors India (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1242682607906648064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>While fans started to laud Ashwin for his creativeness and will to aware every one of the novel coronavirus, Rajasthan Royals joined in as they retweeted it by saying: “How to keep distance from memories during a #21daylockdown?”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">How to keep distance from memories during a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/21daylockdown?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#21daylockdown</a>? <a href="https://t.co/GIQbX6bsqv">https://t.co/GIQbX6bsqv</a></p>
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals/status/1242785515234930688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The banter between Ashwin and RR comes as sheer freshness amid the testing times as not only India but the entire world continues to fight back against COVID-19.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With every major tournament and leagues getting postponed and Indian government ordering complete lockdown for 21 days, the sportspersons have taken help of social media to keep their fans engaged while asking everyone, repeatedly, to maintain social distancing by saying at home.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The COVID-19 pandemic has made the entire world come to a stand-still with many countries going under lockdown in a bid to curb the spread of the deadly virus. In India, the positive number of cases surged to 562 on Tuesday and almost every athlete has been urging everyone to stay at their home.

The COVID-19 pandemic has made the entire world come to a stand-still with many countries going under lockdown in a bid to curb the spread of the deadly virus. In India, the positive number of cases surged to 562 on Tuesday and almost every athlete has been urging everyone to stay at their home. However, veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has been one of the few to remain extremely active on social media platform Twitter in a bid to spread awareness surrounding the COVID-19. Ashwin on Wednesday gave a hilarious throwback to the much-talked-about incident from IPL 2019 where he had run Englishman Jos Buttler out (Mankad-ed him) in a match between Rajasthan Royals and Kings XI Punjab. The veteran Indian spinner posted a photograph from the incident while urging everyone to take a lesson from it and stay inside your crease, in this case inside your home. “Hahaha, somebody sent me this and told me it's exactly been 1 year since this run out happened. As the nation goes into a lockdown, this is a good reminder to my citizens. Don't wander out. Stay inside, stay safe! #21DayLockdown,” Ashwin captioned the photograph. Hahaha, somebody sent me this and told me it's exactly been 1 year since this run out happened. As the nation goes into a lockdown, this is a good reminder to my citizens. Don't wander out. Stay inside, stay safe! #21DayLockdown pic.twitter.com/bSN1454kFt — lets stay indoors India (@ashwinravi99) March 25, 2020 × While fans started to laud Ashwin for his creativeness and will to aware every one of the novel coronavirus, Rajasthan Royals joined in as they retweeted it by saying: “How to keep distance from memories during a #21daylockdown?” How to keep distance from memories during a #21daylockdown? https://t.co/GIQbX6bsqv — Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) March 25, 2020 × The banter between Ashwin and RR comes as sheer freshness amid the testing times as not only India but the entire world continues to fight back against COVID-19. With every major tournament and leagues getting postponed and Indian government ordering complete lockdown for 21 days, the sportspersons have taken help of social media to keep their fans engaged while asking everyone, repeatedly, to maintain social distancing by saying at home.

Ravichandran Ashwin uses 'Mankad' incident with Jos Buttler to aware everyone of COVID-19 threat; Rajasthan Royals respond

<p>At least 51 positive cases of coronavirus have been reported in India including 122 Indian nationals and 25 foreign nationals. The COVID-19 continues to spread like a wildfire and that has left shredded the daily routine of everyone into pieces. While the sporting world continues to stay grounded with an unusual halt&nbsp;due to the coronavirus pandemic, veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin took to Twitter to urge his fellow citizens to follow all the steps to contain the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ashwin has been one of the vocal cricketers in highlighting the threat posed by the deadly COVID-19. &nbsp;Ashwin, in his tweet, wrote that the planet is challenging the human race and is asking everyone to be more responsible towards society. The Indian spinner further said that it is time to be honest and confine ourselves for the sake of other people around us.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/monkeygate-was-probably-the-lowest-ricky-ponting-reveals-lowest-point-of-his-career-287178">'Monkeygate was probably the lowest' - Ricky Ponting reveals lowest point of his career</a></strong></p>

<p>“The planet is challenging the human race, asking us if we can be responsible towards the society, it’s asking us if we can be honest and confine ourselves for another person's sake. Thinking face some very difficult questions to answer. Stay safe and answer the questions Folded hands#coronavirusindia,” Ashwin tweeted on Wednesday.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The planet is challenging the human race, asking us if we can be responsible towards the society, it’s asking us if we can be honest and confine ourselves for another persons sake. some very difficult questions to answer. Stay safe and answer the questions <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirusindia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirusindia</a></p>
— Ashwin Ravichandran (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1240215473595117570?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/guys-wash-your-hands-kl-rahul-reminds-shreyas-iyer-hardik-pandya-about-health-advisory-on-coronavirus-287159">'Guys, wash your hands' - KL Rahul reminds Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya about health advisory on coronavirus</a></strong></p>

<p>As the world continues to fight against the dreaded coronavirus, it is suggested by all medical experts to stay confined and maintain social distancing. The sporting calendar has been torn apart by the novel COVID-19 with almost every major leagues and tournaments, across sports, getting either cancelled or postponed.</p>


At least 51 positive cases of coronavirus have been reported in India including 122 Indian nationals and 25 foreign nationals. The COVID-19 continues to spread like a wildfire and that has left shredded the daily routine of everyone into pieces.

At least 51 positive cases of coronavirus have been reported in India including 122 Indian nationals and 25 foreign nationals. The COVID-19 continues to spread like a wildfire and that has left shredded the daily routine of everyone into pieces. While the sporting world continues to stay grounded with an unusual halt due to the coronavirus pandemic, veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin took to Twitter to urge his fellow citizens to follow all the steps to contain the coronavirus pandemic. Ashwin has been one of the vocal cricketers in highlighting the threat posed by the deadly COVID-19. Ashwin, in his tweet, wrote that the planet is challenging the human race and is asking everyone to be more responsible towards society. The Indian spinner further said that it is time to be honest and confine ourselves for the sake of other people around us. ALSO READ: 'Monkeygate was probably the lowest' - Ricky Ponting reveals lowest point of his career “The planet is challenging the human race, asking us if we can be responsible towards the society, it’s asking us if we can be honest and confine ourselves for another person's sake. Thinking face some very difficult questions to answer. Stay safe and answer the questions Folded hands#coronavirusindia,” Ashwin tweeted on Wednesday. The planet is challenging the human race, asking us if we can be responsible towards the society, it’s asking us if we can be honest and confine ourselves for another persons sake. some very difficult questions to answer. Stay safe and answer the questions #coronavirusindia — Ashwin Ravichandran (@ashwinravi99) March 18, 2020 × ALSO READ: 'Guys, wash your hands' - KL Rahul reminds Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya about health advisory on coronavirus As the world continues to fight against the dreaded coronavirus, it is suggested by all medical experts to stay confined and maintain social distancing. The sporting calendar has been torn apart by the novel COVID-19 with almost every major leagues and tournaments, across sports, getting either cancelled or postponed.

Planet is asking us to be more responsible towards society: Ravichandran Ashwin appeals for social distancing to curb coronavirus

<p>Indian cricket has celebrated the emergence of a potent fast bowling unit but it is high time that the establishment focuses on producing quality Test spinners, especially off-break bowlers, feel former players.</p>

<p>Ravichandran Ashwin (365 wickets in 71 Tests) has been an impact bowler in home conditions but the current team management hasn't exactly put complete faith in Tamil Nadu tweaker's abilities in overseas conditions.</p>

<p>While former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh feels that seasoned domestic performers like Akshay Wakhare (34 years) and Jalaj Saxena (33 years) should be given a break, another veteran Laxman Sivaramakrishnan is of the opinion that a younger pool needs to be created as Ashwin still has "good three years of Test cricket left in him".</p>

<p>"Ashwin is a very hard-working bowler and he has not taken his place for granted. He still has three good years left and it''s time now that we find the next crop of young spinners which is ready to take over when time comes," Sivaramakrishnan told PTI.</p>

<p>But Harbhajan has a different idea.</p>

<p>"Jalaj Saxena and Akshay Wakhare have performed year after year at the domestic level, at times on flat tracks. I have seen Akshay closely at the Mumbai Indians nets. Age for me is just a number. I don''t believe these two can't be tried," the ''Turbanator'' said.</p>

<p>But why have we not produced any second line of off-spinners in these years?</p>

<p>"I haven't seen a good off-spinner at the Ranji level. That's because of bad captaincy at the Ranji Trophy level. If an off-spinner gets hit by a right-hander, captains take him off and that hits his confidence. Harbhajan Singh became a great bowler because the captain was Sourav Ganguly, who gave him encouragement," said Sivaramakrishnan, the hero of 1985 Benson &amp; Hedges Cup.</p>

<p>Siva does have sympathy for Saxena though.</p>

<p>"Jalaj's is a classic case of his career completely coinciding with Ashwin's best years. But right now we can't look at players who are 33 or 34 years. Because by the time another three years go by, the fitness levels might be an issue."</p>

<p>What about Karnataka's Krishnappa Gowtham?</p>

<p>"He is good but I don't think good enough for Test cricket," was Siva''s honest assessment.</p>

<p>"We need a new set of good spinners (all types) at the India A level, who should be ready in next three years. Rahul Chahar is very young but again, he is more of a white-ball bowler. Shahbaz Nadeem is 30 plus and Yuzvendra Chahal is in his late 20s," he added with a note of caution.</p>

<p>Another former Test off-spinner Rajesh Chauhan believes that Ashwin's problem is not knowing at times what is his wicket-taking delivery.</p>

<p>"Ashwin is a class bowler but with so much variations, he at times doesn't know what is his wicket-taking delivery. About Jalaj, I don't think he is a specialist off-spinner. He is more of an all-rounder."</p>

<p>Former wicketkeeper Deep Dasgupta felt that various state teams, on the junior cricket set-up, do not put emphasis on creating a talent pool.</p>

<p>"We had a phase where we wanted only wrist spinners at the highest level. So at the junior level (U-16 and U-19), boys started feeling what's the use of being an off-spinner. But I agree with Harbhajan that Wakhare or Jalaj could be tried in future."</p>


Indian cricket has celebrated the emergence of a potent fast bowling unit but it is high time that the establishment focuses on producing quality Test spinners, especially off-break bowlers, feel former players.

Indian cricket has celebrated the emergence of a potent fast bowling unit but it is high time that the establishment focuses on producing quality Test spinners, especially off-break bowlers, feel former players. Ravichandran Ashwin (365 wickets in 71 Tests) has been an impact bowler in home conditions but the current team management hasn't exactly put complete faith in Tamil Nadu tweaker's abilities in overseas conditions. While former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh feels that seasoned domestic performers like Akshay Wakhare (34 years) and Jalaj Saxena (33 years) should be given a break, another veteran Laxman Sivaramakrishnan is of the opinion that a younger pool needs to be created as Ashwin still has "good three years of Test cricket left in him". "Ashwin is a very hard-working bowler and he has not taken his place for granted. He still has three good years left and it''s time now that we find the next crop of young spinners which is ready to take over when time comes," Sivaramakrishnan told PTI. But Harbhajan has a different idea. "Jalaj Saxena and Akshay Wakhare have performed year after year at the domestic level, at times on flat tracks. I have seen Akshay closely at the Mumbai Indians nets. Age for me is just a number. I don''t believe these two can't be tried," the ''Turbanator'' said. But why have we not produced any second line of off-spinners in these years? "I haven't seen a good off-spinner at the Ranji level. That's because of bad captaincy at the Ranji Trophy level. If an off-spinner gets hit by a right-hander, captains take him off and that hits his confidence. Harbhajan Singh became a great bowler because the captain was Sourav Ganguly, who gave him encouragement," said Sivaramakrishnan, the hero of 1985 Benson & Hedges Cup. Siva does have sympathy for Saxena though. "Jalaj's is a classic case of his career completely coinciding with Ashwin's best years. But right now we can't look at players who are 33 or 34 years. Because by the time another three years go by, the fitness levels might be an issue." What about Karnataka's Krishnappa Gowtham? "He is good but I don't think good enough for Test cricket," was Siva''s honest assessment. "We need a new set of good spinners (all types) at the India A level, who should be ready in next three years. Rahul Chahar is very young but again, he is more of a white-ball bowler. Shahbaz Nadeem is 30 plus and Yuzvendra Chahal is in his late 20s," he added with a note of caution. Another former Test off-spinner Rajesh Chauhan believes that Ashwin's problem is not knowing at times what is his wicket-taking delivery. "Ashwin is a class bowler but with so much variations, he at times doesn't know what is his wicket-taking delivery. About Jalaj, I don't think he is a specialist off-spinner. He is more of an all-rounder." Former wicketkeeper Deep Dasgupta felt that various state teams, on the junior cricket set-up, do not put emphasis on creating a talent pool. "We had a phase where we wanted only wrist spinners at the highest level. So at the junior level (U-16 and U-19), boys started feeling what's the use of being an off-spinner. But I agree with Harbhajan that Wakhare or Jalaj could be tried in future."

Create second line of finger spinners for Test team, urge former India spinners

<p>Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli loses his number one rank in the ICC Test Players Rankings after scoring 21 runs in the first Test (Kohli had scores of 2 and 19 at Basin Reserve, Wellington). India faced a heavy defeat by the Kiwis in the first Test in Wellington.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-named-in-asia-xi-yet-to-decide-if-he-will-play-or-not-282817">Virat Kohli named in Asia XI, yet to decide if he will play or not</a></p>

<p>Aussie batsman Steve Smith's 911 points overtake Virat Kohli, who currently holds 906 points and is at number two.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-hand-10-wickets-defeat-to-india-registers-100th-test-victory-282244" hreflang="en">New Zealand hand 10-wickets defeat to India, registers 100th Test victory</a></p>

<p>Steve Smith reaches the number one position for the eighth time. The first time he earned the top spot was back in June 2015. Smith and Kohli have dominated the top two spots in the ICC Test player rankings for several years now, the only person to earn the top spot other than these to players was Kane Williamson, who was at the number 1 in December 2015 for just eight days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jasprit Bumrah has also slipped 5 ranks after his poor display in the first Test and currently ranks at number 11. Ravichandran Ashwin is now the only Indian bowler who features in the top 10 bowlers in Test list, he is at number 9.&nbsp;</p>


Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli loses his number one rank in the ICC Test Players Rankings after scoring 21 runs in the first Test (Kohli had scores of 2 and 19 at Basin Reserve, Wellington).

Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli loses his number one rank in the ICC Test Players Rankings after scoring 21 runs in the first Test (Kohli had scores of 2 and 19 at Basin Reserve, Wellington). India faced a heavy defeat by the Kiwis in the first Test in Wellington. Also read: Virat Kohli named in Asia XI, yet to decide if he will play or not Aussie batsman Steve Smith's 911 points overtake Virat Kohli, who currently holds 906 points and is at number two. Also read: New Zealand hand 10-wickets defeat to India, registers 100th Test victory Steve Smith reaches the number one position for the eighth time. The first time he earned the top spot was back in June 2015. Smith and Kohli have dominated the top two spots in the ICC Test player rankings for several years now, the only person to earn the top spot other than these to players was Kane Williamson, who was at the number 1 in December 2015 for just eight days. Jasprit Bumrah has also slipped 5 ranks after his poor display in the first Test and currently ranks at number 11. Ravichandran Ashwin is now the only Indian bowler who features in the top 10 bowlers in Test list, he is at number 9.

ICC Test rankings: Virat Kohli looses number one rank after poor form

<p>A day after the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the decision to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-suspends-zimbabwe-cricket-over-government-interference-237023">suspend the Zimbabwe Cricket</a> with immediate effect, India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has sympathised for the 'lovely cricket nation'.</p>

<p>Zimbabwe player Sikandar Raza on Friday posted a tweet following his team's suspension where he wrote that it was not how he wanted to say goodbye to the sport.</p>

<p>"How one decision has made a team, strangers, How one decision has made so many people unemployed, How one decision affects so many families, How one decision has ended so many careers, Certainly not how I wanted to say goodbye to international cricket. @ICC," he tweeted.</p>

<p>Expressed his solicitude towards Raza, Ashwin tweeted,&nbsp;"Extremely heart breaking news for all Zim cricketers and their fans, reading the tweets of @SRazaB24 just shows the agony of cricketers and how their life's have been taken away from them. I pray that the lovely cricket nation returns to its glory asap! #ZimbabweCricket.</p>

<p>"The ICC on Thursday suspended Zimbabwe Cricket with immediate effect for failing to fulfill their obligation of ensuring that there is no government interference in its administration.</p>

<p>ICC's chairman Shashank Manohar said that what happened in Zimbabwe is a 'serious breach'&nbsp;of the ICC Constitution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We do not take the decision to suspend a member lightly, but we must keep our sport free from political interference. What has happened in Zimbabwe is a serious breach of the ICC Constitution and we cannot allow it to continue unchecked.</p>

<p>The ICC wants cricket to continue in Zimbabwe in accordance with the ICC Constitution," ICC quoted Manohar as saying.</p>


A day after the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the decision to suspend the Zimbabwe Cricket with immediate effect, India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has sympathised for the 'lovely cricket nation'.

A day after the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the decision to suspend the Zimbabwe Cricket with immediate effect, India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has sympathised for the 'lovely cricket nation'. Zimbabwe player Sikandar Raza on Friday posted a tweet following his team's suspension where he wrote that it was not how he wanted to say goodbye to the sport. "How one decision has made a team, strangers, How one decision has made so many people unemployed, How one decision affects so many families, How one decision has ended so many careers, Certainly not how I wanted to say goodbye to international cricket. @ICC," he tweeted. Expressed his solicitude towards Raza, Ashwin tweeted, "Extremely heart breaking news for all Zim cricketers and their fans, reading the tweets of @SRazaB24 just shows the agony of cricketers and how their life's have been taken away from them. I pray that the lovely cricket nation returns to its glory asap! #ZimbabweCricket. "The ICC on Thursday suspended Zimbabwe Cricket with immediate effect for failing to fulfill their obligation of ensuring that there is no government interference in its administration. ICC's chairman Shashank Manohar said that what happened in Zimbabwe is a 'serious breach' of the ICC Constitution. "We do not take the decision to suspend a member lightly, but we must keep our sport free from political interference. What has happened in Zimbabwe is a serious breach of the ICC Constitution and we cannot allow it to continue unchecked. The ICC wants cricket to continue in Zimbabwe in accordance with the ICC Constitution," ICC quoted Manohar as saying.

Zimbabwe Cricket's suspension leaves Ashwin heartbroken

Major controversies of Indian Premier League 2019

<p>Punjab&nbsp;captain R Ashwin maintained that the reason for not finishing in the top-four of the Indian Premier League (IPL) was the inability to perform in the powerplays throughout the tournament.</p>

<p>"One of the areas we have definitely lacked is the powerplay, both with the ball and the bat -- in hindsight if we look at it. Because last year we had a great powerplay batting with Chris (Gayle) and KL (Rahul) but this year we could not get off to great starts obviously because the pressure was on them and they had to do a job. But we have to address this going into the next year because we have lost most games on powerplay battles," Ashwin told media.</p>

<p>After facing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-kolkata-defeat-punjab-by-seven-wickets-215766">an eight-wicket defeat at the hands of Kolkata</a> on Friday, Ashwin said the absence of Varun Chakravarthy and Mujeeb-ur-Rahman, who suffered a finger and shoulder injury, respectively; forced Punjab&nbsp;to look beyond their set plans.</p>

<p>"We have not been up to the ball-mark this year. We had a few challenges going into this year from last year, we had a few options, we picked up a few people (at the auction) and they have got injured. So that is not ideally how we had liked to look at it. We definitely put our best team we could in the park and we have tried our best and there have been a lot of positives that have come out of this season," he added.</p>

<p>The off-spinner said that Punjab&nbsp;were banking on Australia pacer Andrew Tye, the Purple-cap winner in 2018, to come in the destructive form in the ongoing edition.</p>

<p>However, Tye returned with just three wickets in his five outings at an economy of more than 10.</p>

<p>"AJ (Tye) had a fantastic IPL last year but it is also about batsmen coming after him in different methods. He has definitely tried hard. It is not lack of efforts that he has not been very good this year. But I am sure he will definitely get better as a cricketer, he is quite a smart cricketer, and he tries to give everything on the field. These sorts of phases are quite common in a cricket career but I am sure he will learn from this," Ashwin&nbsp;said.</p>


Punjab captain R Ashwin maintained that the reason for not finishing in the top-four of the Indian Premier League (IPL) was the inability to perform in the powerplays throughout the tournament.

Punjab captain R Ashwin maintained that the reason for not finishing in the top-four of the Indian Premier League (IPL) was the inability to perform in the powerplays throughout the tournament. "One of the areas we have definitely lacked is the powerplay, both with the ball and the bat -- in hindsight if we look at it. Because last year we had a great powerplay batting with Chris (Gayle) and KL (Rahul) but this year we could not get off to great starts obviously because the pressure was on them and they had to do a job. But we have to address this going into the next year because we have lost most games on powerplay battles," Ashwin told media. After facing an eight-wicket defeat at the hands of Kolkata on Friday, Ashwin said the absence of Varun Chakravarthy and Mujeeb-ur-Rahman, who suffered a finger and shoulder injury, respectively; forced Punjab to look beyond their set plans. "We have not been up to the ball-mark this year. We had a few challenges going into this year from last year, we had a few options, we picked up a few people (at the auction) and they have got injured. So that is not ideally how we had liked to look at it. We definitely put our best team we could in the park and we have tried our best and there have been a lot of positives that have come out of this season," he added. The off-spinner said that Punjab were banking on Australia pacer Andrew Tye, the Purple-cap winner in 2018, to come in the destructive form in the ongoing edition. However, Tye returned with just three wickets in his five outings at an economy of more than 10. "AJ (Tye) had a fantastic IPL last year but it is also about batsmen coming after him in different methods. He has definitely tried hard. It is not lack of efforts that he has not been very good this year. But I am sure he will definitely get better as a cricketer, he is quite a smart cricketer, and he tries to give everything on the field. These sorts of phases are quite common in a cricket career but I am sure he will learn from this," Ashwin said.

Inability to perform in powerplays knocked Punjab out, says captain R Ashwin

<p>Punjab skipper Ravichandran Ashwin has been fined for maintaining slow over-rate during their Indian Premier League match against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-delhi-vanquish-punjab-by-five-wickets-212180">Shreyas Iyer-led&nbsp;Delhi</a> on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ashwin has been fined INR 12 lakh and became the fourth&nbsp;captain to be fined for slow over-rate in&nbsp;IPL 2019 after Mumbai's Rohit Sharma, Bangalore's Virat Kohli and Rajasthan's former skipper Ajinkya Rahane.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The official website of IPL stated, "As it was his team’s first offence of the season under the IPL’s Code of Conduct relating to minimum over-rate offences, Mr. Ashwin was fined Rs 12 lakh."</p>

<p>In the match,&nbsp;Delhi defeated Punjab by five wickets in the ongoing Indian Premier League on Saturday.</p>

<p>Chasing a target of 164, Delhi openers, Shikhar Dhawan and Prithvi Shaw, provided their side a steady start but because of lack of coordination Shaw gave away his wicket when he got run out in the fourth over.</p>

<p>Delhi skipper Shreyas Iyer then came out to bat and both the on-field batters smashed some scintillating shots and formed a 92-run partnership before Dhawan gave a simple catch to R Ashwin off Hardus Viljoen's delivery and brought his 56-run inning to an end.</p>


Punjab skipper Ravichandran Ashwin has been fined for maintaining slow over-rate during their Indian Premier League match against Shreyas Iyer-led Delhi on Saturday.

Punjab skipper Ravichandran Ashwin has been fined for maintaining slow over-rate during their Indian Premier League match against Shreyas Iyer-led Delhi on Saturday. Ashwin has been fined INR 12 lakh and became the fourth captain to be fined for slow over-rate in IPL 2019 after Mumbai's Rohit Sharma, Bangalore's Virat Kohli and Rajasthan's former skipper Ajinkya Rahane. The official website of IPL stated, "As it was his team’s first offence of the season under the IPL’s Code of Conduct relating to minimum over-rate offences, Mr. Ashwin was fined Rs 12 lakh." In the match, Delhi defeated Punjab by five wickets in the ongoing Indian Premier League on Saturday. Chasing a target of 164, Delhi openers, Shikhar Dhawan and Prithvi Shaw, provided their side a steady start but because of lack of coordination Shaw gave away his wicket when he got run out in the fourth over. Delhi skipper Shreyas Iyer then came out to bat and both the on-field batters smashed some scintillating shots and formed a 92-run partnership before Dhawan gave a simple catch to R Ashwin off Hardus Viljoen's delivery and brought his 56-run inning to an end.

Ravichandran Ashwin fined for Punjab's slow over-rate

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