Ravichandran Ashwin displayed his satisfaction after taking nine wickets, including a fifer, as India defeated England by an innings and 64 runs in the fifth Test at HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala on Saturday (March 9).
The off-spinner credited his success in the five-match series against England to his ability to adapt to diverse conditions. The 37-year-old regarded his effort in Ranchi, where India won the series 3-1, as his finest.
For the uninitiated, Ravichandran Ashwin took 26 wickets in five Tests against the visitors, increasing his total to 516 in 100 Tests.
Ashwin said in his post-match comments:
“Feeling very happy. I can’t really put a wrap around how I feel right now. Lots of well wishes before the 100th Test. Throughout the series, I have gone to different actions, speeds, and releases. India is different, each ground has a challenge. I was really happy with the way the ball came out, most pleased with this performance and the second innings in Ranchi.”
Ravichandran Ashwin
Despite playing 100 Tests for India, the Tamil Nadu-born cricketer defended himself against detractors who questioned his willingness to learn and explore. He said:
“Firstly, I am least bit insecure about what people feel about me. I have kept my ears and eyes open to listen to good feedback. Unless I try, I will never be able to learn. If I am confident that I can try something, I don’t hold back.”
Ravichandran Ashwin
Ashwin added:
“I feel times have rolled along. With the number of footage and video analysis going around, people can easily line you up and study you. Not saying sticking to one method won’t work. Thankfully experimenting and learning have helped me. Can’t say this is the only way.”
Ravichandran Ashwin
Ravichandran Ashwin expresses joy for Kuldeep Yadav
Ravichandran Ashwin also lauded Kuldeep Yadav for his fifer in the first innings and highlighted how the pair took advantage of the circumstances to take five wickets in the fifth Test. He said:
“Far end, I thought there was a bit more bite off the surface and at the other end there was some speed off the surface. With the new ball, I got some bounce and kick today. In the first innings when Kuldeep came on from the other side, he was able to utilize it.”
Ravichandran Ashwin
He added:
“The way the ball is coming out of Kuldeep’s hands is unbelievable. Watch a wrist spinner in such flow and the kind of switches he has been able to make through the series and over the last 10 months is so heartening to see. I can’t be more happy for somebody.”
Ravichandran Ashwin
Kuldeep Yadav took 19 wickets in four Tests against England, helping India win the series 4-1.