(Cricket News) Only the second Indian, and ninth overall, is R Ashwin, who has already taken 500 wickets in Test cricket. After arriving in Rajkot on the second day, the 37-year-old offspinner dismissed England’s Zak Crawley in the last session. In his 98th Test, he became the second-fastest bowler to accomplish the feat.

“My father deserves this dedication since he is the one who has guided me through every step of my life. He has endured it all and has experienced heart attacks each time I play. After today’s play, Ashwin spoke with the host announcer, “I think his health has gone for a toss because he is watched games of mine on TV and been a consistent support for me.” He will be overjoyed today, I am sure. However, the game is still in play even if we have taken 500 wickets.

Ashwin’s journey has been one of ongoing experimentation motivated by his desire to improve as a cricket player. When inquired about what remained unchanged, he replied that it was his “drive to excel.”

“My will to succeed and continue improving as a cricket player has never altered; it is been ingrained in me since my days playing club cricket in Chennai,” he remarked. The first thing that crossed my mind whenever I took up the red ball was if I was a good enough red-ball bowler. Many people believe that I am an IPL player, but my preparation for the Tests was greatly influenced by the hard work I put in both Chennai’s club and first-class cricket.”

Nevertheless, Ashwin acknowledged that he came into the spotlight during his formative IPL years with Chennai Super Kings, where he was recognized for his ability to bowl in the powerplay.

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