Ravichandran Ashwin once again stamped his dominance in Test cricket with an extraordinary all-round display during India’s first Test match against Bangladesh in Chennai. Ashwin’s brilliant century combined with a stunning six-wicket haul paved the way for India’s massive 280-run victory.
This remarkable feat has cemented his place among the all-time greats of Test cricket. Let’s dive into the stats, milestones, and moments that made this game unforgettable.
A Record-Breaking Performance by Ravichandran Ashwin
Ashwin’s display was not just another match-winning effort. It was a historic milestone in his illustrious career. His combination of both batting and bowling excellence set a new benchmark, as he became the first cricketer to score a century and take a five-wicket haul in the same Test match twice at the same venue – Chepauk, Chennai. His previous achievement at this venue came in 2021 against England.
This all-round performance highlights Ashwin’s versatility and adaptability, qualities that have made him one of India’s greatest cricketing assets.
Key Milestones:
- 37: Ashwin now has 37 five-wicket hauls in Tests, equaling the legendary Shane Warne, and only behind Muthiah Muralidaran’s 67.
- 4: Ashwin has now scored a century and taken a five-wicket haul in the same Test match on four occasions, a record bettered only by Ian Botham (5).
Ashwin’s Century: Leading From the Front
Playing on his home ground in Chennai, Ashwin’s batting was nothing short of spectacular. He displayed a blend of patience, technique, and aggressive stroke-play that allowed India to build a commanding first-innings total. Scoring his fifth Test century, Ashwin showed why he is not only a world-class bowler but also a highly capable batsman, especially in pressure situations.
Rishabh Pant’s Contribution: Alongside Ashwin’s impressive performance, Rishabh Pant showcased his prowess by scoring his sixth Test century. This remarkable achievement placed him at par with MS Dhoni, who holds the record for the most centuries by an Indian wicketkeeper in the Test format. This partnership played a pivotal role in setting up the massive win for India.
Ashwin’s Bowling Masterclass
Ashwin’s bowling, however, was the true highlight of the match. On a surface that offered turn and bounce, Ashwin’s mastery over his craft was on full display. His six-wicket haul in the second innings completely dismantled Bangladesh, sealing the victory in a matter of minutes.
Notably, Ashwin’s seven five-wicket hauls in the fourth innings of Test matches place him alongside legends like Shane Warne and Muthiah Muralidaran. Only Rangana Herath (12) has taken more five-wicket hauls in the fourth innings.
Fun Fact:
Ashwin is now the oldest Indian to take a five-wicket haul in Test cricket, surpassing Vinoo Mankad’s record from 1955. At 38 years and 2 days, Ashwin continues to defy age and deliver world-class performances.
Ravindra Jadeja: The Silent Contributor
While Ashwin was the star of the show, Ravindra Jadeja also played a crucial role in India’s win. Jadeja’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball has made him a valuable all-rounder for the Indian team.
His 50-plus score and his wicket-taking ability provided India with much-needed support during critical phases of the game. With 12 instances of scoring a fifty and taking five wickets in the same match, Jadeja now trails only Ian Botham (16).
India’s Test Record: A Positive Shift
This win in Chennai not only boosted India’s standing in the ICC World Test Championship but also marked a historic moment in India’s Test cricket history. For the first time, India’s win-loss record in Tests (179-178) surpassed their number of losses.
This places India among the elite five teams to have a positive win-loss record in men’s Test cricket. Such milestones underline the consistent dominance of Indian cricket in the longest format of the game.
External Recognition
To understand the broader context of Ashwin’s achievements, it’s crucial to acknowledge his standing in world cricket. Shane Warne, whom Ashwin now equals in terms of five-wicket hauls, is often regarded as one of the greatest spinners of all time.
Matching such a legend speaks volumes about Ashwin’s longevity and consistency. For further insights into Ashwin’s career and records, you can explore ICC’s World Test Championship stats.
Additionally, this Test match forms part of the ongoing Bangladesh Tour of India 2024-25, a series that holds significant importance for both teams in the Test arena.
For more details about the players and squad for this Test series, visit the Bangladesh Tour of India squads.
If you’re interested in upcoming matches and the series schedule, check out the fixtures and results.
Conclusion: A Legend Continues to Grow
Ravichandran Ashwin’s remarkable all-round performance in Chennai serves as a testament to his exceptional talent and enduring legacy in Indian cricket. With each passing match, Ashwin continues to redefine what’s possible as an all-rounder, and this latest display has only added to his towering stature in world cricket.
As India looks ahead to the remainder of the series, fans will be eager to see whether Ashwin can continue this stunning run of form. His ability to dominate with both bat and ball makes him a unique asset, one that India will rely on heavily in their future Test campaigns.
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