The news that the experienced spinner Ravi Ashwin, who has just claimed his 500th Test wicket, will miss the current Test match between India and England in Rajkot, has shocked Team India. This unanticipated event is the result of a family medical emergency. Virat Kohli is already on a break due to personal reasons, and this absence is expected to significantly hamper the Indian team, especially against an experienced squad like England.
India will have to take on the 3rd Test with only 10 players and 1 substitute, who is neither capable of batting nor bowling, to fill in for Ashwin. This setback is particularly significant as Ashwin had just achieved his 500th wicket by dismissing Zak Crawley.
Ashwin had to depart due to an emergency situation as his mother is unwell and in a serious condition. We all join in prayers for her speedy recovery and hope for the well-being of their family during this challenging time.
“In these challenging times, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the team fully supports Ashwin,” BCCI said via a press release.
With Ashwin likely to be unavailable for the next test against England due to a family emergency, set to take place in Ranchi, it is highly probable that Axar Patel will replace him. Patel, being an excellent all-rounder, appears to be the most suitable and like-for-like replacement. While Patel may not be considered a world-class bowler like Ashwin, he still possesses the potential and skills of a good all-rounder.
The five-match series between India and England currently stands at 1-1, but England are the firm favorites, especially with Ravichandran Ashwin most likely to be out for the next match. India is also without major key players like Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Mohammad Shami, and several others.