Ravichandran Ashwin has been a standout member of India’s Test squad since 2011, with an impressive record of 452 wickets from 89 matches at an average of 24.23. His performance has been especially impressive in away matches, showcasing his ability to take wickets in any conditions
Ashwin has achieved the remarkable feat of being the fastest Indian to reach 450 Test wickets and the fastest Indian to reach the mark of 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, and 400 wickets respectively.
In this article, we explore three reasons why Ashwin will be why he could be the fastest Indian to reach the 500 wicket mark.
Averages fifty wickets in every nine tests
Ashwin has already taken 452 wickets in 89 matches, and there is still a game left in the current Test against Australia. This averages out to him getting 50 wickets every nine Test games. If he manages to reach 500 wickets by the time he makes his 104th appearance, he will become the fastest to do so, with more than 14 matches to make that happen.
Present form
Ashwin has been in impressive form in the initial stages of the ongoing Nagpur test, which is a positive sign that he will soon reach 500. He claimed three wickets, one of which was of the well-set and talented Alex Carey. His plentiful experience and varied bag of tricks make him a difficult adversary for batters around the globe.
Upcoming event
As part of their schedule, India will play two test matches against the West Indies in the Caribbean after the World Test Championship ends this year. Ashwin has a remarkable record against the West Indies, who have been unable to counter him in the past. Then in early 2024, India will host England for a 5-match test series and Ashwin typically does well against them as well, particularly in India. Considering the upcoming challenges and Ashwin’s successful history against them, he could likely reach 500 wickets quickly.
