Ravichandran Ashwin, India’s premier off-spinner, is poised to make history as he prepares to bowl on home soil in the upcoming five-Test series against Bangladesh and New Zealand. With 100 Tests under his belt and the distinction of being the world’s No. 1 Test bowler, Ashwin is eager to showcase his skills on spin-friendly Indian wickets.
Ashwin’s return to his home ground, the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, for the first Test against Bangladesh on September 19 holds special significance. He is on the cusp of several records, including becoming India’s highest wicket-taker in international matches played in India. With 455 wickets in 126 matches across formats, he trails only Anil Kumble’s tally of 476.
In the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, Ashwin is poised to surpass Nathan Lyon as the leading wicket-taker. With 174 wickets in 35 Tests, he is just 13 behind Lyon’s 187. Ashwin also holds the record for most five-wicket hauls in WTC matches, with 10 in 34 games.
Another milestone within reach for Ashwin is becoming India’s leading wicket-taker in Tests against Bangladesh. Currently, Zaheer Khan holds the record with 31 wickets, while Ashwin has 23. With nine more wickets, he will surpass Zaheer’s mark.
Beyond the upcoming series, Ashwin has his sights set on India’s tour of Australia later this year. The 37-year-old is likely to make his final appearance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he will aim to continue his impressive record against the Aussies.
