In a historic moment for Indian cricket, Ravichandran Ashwin, the seasoned off-spinner, etched his name in the record books during the fifth Test match between India and England in 2024. Ashwin’s exceptional performance catapulted him past Anil Kumble, making him the new record holder for the most five-wicket hauls in Test cricket for India.
The Milestone
Ashwin’s 36th five-wicket haul came in his 100th Test match, a fitting occasion for this milestone achievement. His remarkable feat was instrumental in India’s resounding victory by an innings and 64 runs at Dharamshala. Let’s delve into the details:
- Breaking the Previous Record: Anil Kumble, a legendary Indian spinner, held the previous record with 35 five-wicket hauls in 132 Tests. Ashwin’s 36th fifer surpassed Kumble’s mark, solidifying his place in cricket history.
- Series Triumph: India clinched the series against England, winning it 4-1. Ashwin’s stellar performance played a pivotal role, and he finished the match with impressive figures of 9/128.
- Emotional Moment: Speaking after the match, Ashwin expressed his joy: “Very happy, can’t really put a wrapper on how I’m feeling. A lot has happened, a lot of talk about the 100th Test. Overwhelmed, a lot of well-wishers have come forward. Win the Test and take wickets, what more can a bowler ask for?”
- Elite Company: Ashwin joined an exclusive club of bowlers who achieved a five-wicket haul in their 100th Test match. The other members include Shane Warne, Anil Kumble, and Muttiah Muralitharan.
Ashwin’s Overall Impact
Beyond this record-breaking feat, Ashwin’s career has been nothing short of remarkable:
- 500-Wicket Club: Earlier in the series, Ashwin became the ninth bowler in cricket history to enter the coveted 500-wicket club.
- Century of Tests: He also became the 14th player to represent India in 100 Test matches, a testament to his longevity and consistency.
- Dual Threat: Ashwin’s prowess extends beyond bowling. He boasts 114 wickets against England, equaling his tally against Australia. Moreover, he is one of the rare cricketers to achieve the double of 1000 runs and 100 Test wickets against a single opponent.
The Numbers
Here’s a quick look at the leading five-wicket hauls in Tests and specifically for India:
Most Five-Wicket Hauls in Tests
- Muthiah Muralidaran: 67 fifers in 133 matches.
- Shane Warne: 37 fifers in 145 matches.
- Richard Hadlee: 36 fifers in 86 matches.
- Ravichandran Ashwin: 36 fifers in 100 matches.
- Anil Kumble: 35 fifers in 132 matches.
Most Five-Wicket Hauls in Tests for India
- Ravichandran Ashwin: 36 fifers in 100 matches.
- Anil Kumble: 35 fifers in 132 matches.
- Harbhajan Singh: 25 fifers in 103 matches.
- Kapil Dev: 23 fifers in 131 matches.
- Bhagwath Chandrashekhar: 16 fifers in 58 matches.
Conclusion
Ravichandran Ashwin’s legacy continues to grow, and his impact on Indian cricket is immeasurable. As he adds more chapters to his illustrious career, fans around the world celebrate his achievements. With Ashwin at the helm, India’s spin legacy remains intact, and his name will forever resonate in the annals of the game.
