Ravichandran Ashwin, India’s premier spinner, has etched his name further into the annals of Test cricket history by claiming his 37th five-wicket haul. This remarkable achievement came in the second innings of the first Test against Bangladesh at his home ground, Chepauk.
While the first innings proved less fruitful for Ashwin with the ball, he made a significant contribution with the bat, scoring a century that helped India post a formidable total of 376 runs. However, it was his bowling prowess in the second innings that proved decisive, earning India a comprehensive 280-run victory.
Ashwin’s exceptional performance highlights his status as one of the most prolific wicket-takers in Test cricket. He now holds the following records for India:
* Second most wickets (522)
* Most five-wicket hauls (37)
* Joint most ten-wicket hauls (10)
* Fastest to 250, 300, and 350 wickets in the world
* Second most centuries at No. 8 or below in the world (4)
* Only cricketer to have taken 30 five-fors and scored 20 50+ scores
Ashwin’s all-round brilliance was crucial in India’s victory. His 113 off 133 balls in the first innings provided a solid foundation for the team’s total, particularly after the top-order faltered. While the top-order struggled again in the second innings, Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill stepped up with centuries to take India to a total of 287/4 before skipper Rohit Sharma declared.
On Day 4, India wasted no time in dismissing the remaining six Bangladesh batters, securing a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. This victory also strengthens India’s position in the World Test Championship points table.
