Ravichandran Ashwin, visibly moved, has conveyed his deep appreciation to India’s remarkable skipper, Rohit Sharma, for his exceptional leadership and compassionate nature during the recent Rajkot Test against England. Ashwin expressed heartfelt gratitude, emphasizing Sharma’s outstanding qualities as a captain and the invaluable support he provided. The spinner’s emotional acknowledgment highlights the significance of Sharma’s guidance and the positive impact it had on the team during a crucial match, showcasing a bond beyond the boundaries of the cricket field.
Ashwin’s 500 Test Wicket Milestone:
Ashwin achieved a significant milestone of 500 wickets and marked his 100th Test appearance during the England series. However, a health emergency involving his mother compelled him to briefly step away from the third Test in Rajkot. Departing from his teammates after the second day’s play, he returned to the squad later on the fourth day. This personal setback underscored the challenges faced by athletes balancing professional commitments with family responsibilities, highlighting Ashwin’s commitment to both cricket and his loved ones.
On his social media handle, Ashwin said, “ It all kicked off on the second day, though it’s a bit blurry now. I was on 499 wickets I think, and was hoping to reach the milestone in the second Test in Vizag, but it wasn’t to be. But on day two in Rajkot, I finally got Zak Crawley. It wasn’t a particularly great ball, but I finally got to the landmark.”
After the Scenario of the Achievements:
Following this milestone, Ashwin awaited a congratulatory call from his family, anticipating their recognition of his achievement and sharing in the joy of his accomplishment.
Ashwin said, “After the end of play, I had agreed to do some interviews and went to the press area. I’d just got my 500th wicket, so was expecting a call from my wife or father. I was a bit surprised not to hear from them, since it was almost 7 PM. But I figured they must be busy with interviews and responding to congratulatory messages, so didn’t think much of it.”
He also said, “After being unable to reach my parents, I finally got hold of my wife on the phone. Her voice was breaking. I told her I was just about to get into the shower, and she asked me to go somewhere alone, away from my team-mates. She said that my mother had collapsed after a severe headache.”
Ashwin admitted struggling to fully grasp the news, especially amidst the intense focus on the ongoing Test match and the series standing at 1-1. England closed the second day at 207 for 2 in reply to India’s 445, heightening the tension of the series. The cricketer’s acknowledgment reflects the challenge of maintaining concentration amidst personal achievements and the competitive atmosphere of Test cricket.
Ashwin said, “I just blanked out. I don’t remember what I did, but I was crying. I didn’t know what to ask her. I didn’t want anyone to see me cry – it was an instinctive reaction. I just sat alone in my room, not knowing what to do. On one hand, I knew I had to go back home, but there was also the thinking of how can I let my team-mates down. I couldn’t strike that balance. I didn’t know what to tell the coach or captain. I was in the XI, and if I go home now, we’d be left with only 10 players, giving England the advantage.”
He added, “But I was also just thinking about my mother. And when was the last time I spoke to her. In my mind, I knew I had to go back home and see her, but the doctors were informing us that nobody was allowed in to meet her.”
Ashwin revealed that it was then when Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid entered the dressing room, making his decision clear and simple. Their guidance and support played a pivotal role in Ashwin’s choice, highlighting the influence of strong leadership in helping athletes navigate challenging situations.
He said,” I think since I wasn’t answering my phone, my wife must have called Rohit and Dravid to tell them the news. Rohit came in, saw me thinking, and just said, ‘what are you doing? You need to leave right away. Please just pack your bags and go.’”
After Challenge of This Incident:
The subsequent hurdle involved arranging a swift return home, yet with no flights available to Chennai until the following morning. However, Ashwin received assistance from an unforeseen quarter, aiding him in overcoming this logistical challenge. This unexpected help underscored the importance of solidarity and cooperation, even in the face of unexpected obstacles.
He expressed, “I must say a big thank you to Cheteshwar Pujara as well, who spoke to a lot of people and arranged for a chartered flight for me.
He said, “Our team physio Kamlesh Jain is a good friend. Rohit told Kamlesh to accompany me on the flight to Chennai, despite Kamlesh being one of only two physios in the team. I told Kamlesh, ‘it’s ok, please stay back’. But when I went to the board the flight, Kamlesh and a security person was already there. Not just that, but Rohit regularly kept calling Kamlesh to check in on me and see how I’m doing. That deeply moved me. In a selfish society like ours, that man who decides to take a moment to think of someone else’s wellbeing, he’s truly great.”
Ashwin Praises Rohit:
While praising Rohit, Ashwin said, “ Rohit is a special person, an outstanding leader, with a golden heart. I saw it first-hand. I’d give my life for him on the field, that’s the kind of captain he is. It’s because of these qualities that he’s won so many titles, including five IPLs. I pray to God that Rohit achieves even more in his career and life.”
After a brief stay in Chennai and receiving news of his mother’s impending recovery, Ashwin felt compelled to rejoin his teammates in Rajkot. He noted the contrast between parental attitudes of past and present generations, with his mother prioritizing his well-being and urging him to return to the team despite her condition.
With assistance from BCCI secretary Jay Shah, Ashwin arranged another chartered flight to Rajkot, reuniting with the squad on day four. India clinched the Rajkot Test by 434 runs, leading 2-1, and eventually securing the series 4-1 in Dharamsala, with Ashwin bagging nine wickets in his 100th Test.
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