India‘s spin duo of Kuldeep Yadav and Ravichandran Ashwin spun a web of magic on the opening day of the fifth and final Test against England in Dharamsala. Kuldeep starred with a magnificent five-wicket haul, restricting England to a paltry 218 runs in just 57.4 overs. Ashwin, playing his historic 100th Test match, chipped in with four crucial wickets.
Kuldeep’s Redemption and Ashwin’s Milestone
Kuldeep, who narrowly missed out on a five-wicket haul in the previous Test, redeemed himself with a stellar performance. His bowling figures of 5/72 proved instrumental in bundling out the English batting line-up.
As the final English wicket fell, Kuldeep, in a heartwarming gesture of respect, hurled the match ball towards Ashwin, acknowledging his 100th Test milestone. Ashwin, with a gracious smile, returned the ball, initiating a playful exchange between the two spinners.
The exchange showcased the camaraderie between the two spinners. Despite Ashwin claiming four wickets himself, he urged Kuldeep to keep the match ball as a memento of his fifer.
Kuldeep Expresses Gratitude Towards Ashwin
In the post-match interview, Kuldeep spoke about the heartwarming exchange and his immense respect for Ashwin. “He is very kind and humble. Obviously, playing his 100th Test match for India… it is unbelievable. I’ve been with the team for seven years, and I’ve seen his ups and downs. It is lovely to have him in the dressing room and to learn from him. I thought he was playing his 100th game, and he deserves that. He is a very special player,” Kuldeep expressed his admiration.
When the interviewer pointed out that Kuldeep could keep the ball as Ashwin already has 35 five-wicket hauls in his illustrious career, Kuldeep revealed Ashwin’s words of encouragement: “He told me the same thing! He said, ‘I got 35, so, you can keep it!'”
With a strong bowling performance, India ended Day 1 at a comfortable position of 135/1, with skipper Rohit Sharma (52*) and Shubman Gill (26*) at the crease. The hosts currently hold an unassailable 3-1 lead in the series and will aim to seal a dominant victory in Dharamsala before the players head into the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League.
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