Ind vs Eng: Devdutt Padikkal Steps In & Ashwin Withdraws from Test Due to Family Emergency

On Friday, February 16, veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin claimed the spotlight by becoming just the second Indian to secure 500 wickets in Test cricket. This milestone was reached on Day 2 of the third Test between India and England at Rajkot’s Niranjan Shah Stadium when he dismissed Zak Crawley for 15 runs.

However, the celebratory atmosphere took a somber turn when the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) released an official statement on Friday night. The announcement revealed that the Tamil Nadu cricketer had withdrawn from the third Test due to a family emergency. Consequently, the 37-year-old will not participate in the remainder of the Rajkot Test. Devdutt Padikkal took to the field as a substitute fielder for Ashwin at the beginning of Day 3 in Rajkot.

The BCCI release stated, “Ravichandran Ashwin has withdrawn from the Test squad, effective immediately, due to a family medical emergency. In these challenging times, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the team fully support Ashwin.”

The news comes as a shock to fans and cricket enthusiasts who were celebrating Ashwin’s monumental achievement in reaching the 500-wicket mark. Despite the setback, the cricketing community extends its support and wishes for Ashwin and his family during this difficult time.

Ashwin’s contribution to Indian cricket has been immense, and his absence will undoubtedly be felt on the field. However, family always comes first, and Ashwin’s decision to prioritize his family’s well-being is commendable.

As the cricketing fraternity awaits further updates on Ashwin’s situation, the focus shifts back to the ongoing Test match between India and England, where both teams continue to battle it out in his absence.