The veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin had to depart from the third Test between India vs England in Rajkot unexpectedly because of his mother’s hospitalization.
After achieving his 500th wicket on Day 2, Ashwin hurriedly made his way back to Chennai. Despite the significant milestone, celebrations were put on hold as family commitments awaited him. Day 4 of the Rajkot Test saw Ashwin rejoining Team India, thanks to the thoughtful gesture of BCCI secretary Jay Shah, who arranged a chartered flight for the spinner. The cricket community witnessed this admirable move by the board, emphasizing their support for Ashwin’s urgency.
During the commentary of the 3rd Test between India and England at the Niranjan Shah stadium in Rajkot, Ravi Shastri, former India cricketer and head coach, shared the heartening news. He disclosed that Jay Shah’s considerate act was in response to Ashwin’s need to be with his ailing mother in Tamil Nadu. This instance not only showcased the cricket board’s compassion but also highlighted the human side of the sport, where personal and professional aspects coexist.
“BCCI secretary Jay Shah had arranged a charter plane for Ashwin’s trip home and back,” Ravi Shastri said on air.
“The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is pleased to announce the return of Ravichandran Ashwin to the squad after a brief absence due to a family emergency. Ashwin had to temporarily withdraw from the squad after Day 2 of the 3rd Test in Rajkot to attend to a family emergency,” BCCI said in a press release.
After securing his 500th Test wicket for India by dismissing Zak Crawley in the second innings, Ashwin departed Gujarat on a private plane arranged by Jay Shah. This revelation came to light when Ravi Shastri shared the information during the commentary.
In the aftermath of Yashasvi Jaiswal’s impressive unbeaten 214, England faced more challenges during Tea on Day 4. They were struggling at 18 for two in their second innings while chasing an enormous 557-run target.
