Ravichandran Ashwin Pulls Out of IND vs ENG 3rd Test Due to Family Emergency

The BCCI expressed its sincere solidarity with the esteemed cricketer and his family, emphasizing that the health and welfare of players and their loved ones remain paramount, the board declared.

Ravichandran Ashwin has made the decision to withdraw from the Indian Test squad with immediate effect due to a family emergency, rendering him unavailable for the remainder of the ongoing 3rd Test at Rajkot, as announced by the BCCI late Friday night.

“Ravichandran Ashwin has opted to withdraw from the Test squad with immediate effect owing to a family medical emergency. In these trying times, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the team stand firmly behind Ashwin,” the statement from the BCCI conveyed.

“The BCCI extends its sincere support to the exceptional cricketer and his family. The health and well-being of players and their families are paramount. The Board urges that Ashwin and his family’s privacy be respected as they navigate through this difficult period,” it elaborated.

While the nature of the emergency remains undisclosed, the board assured that all necessary support and assistance would be extended to the player and his family, appreciating the understanding and empathy displayed by fans and media.

“The Board and the team remain committed to providing any required assistance to Ashwin and will maintain open lines of communication to offer assistance as necessary. Team India acknowledges and values the understanding and compassion demonstrated by fans and media during this delicate phase,” the board reaffirmed.

Earlier in the day, Ashwin celebrated his achievement of reaching 500 Test wickets by dismissing Zak Crawley in England’s first innings.

During the third Test against England, he became the second Indian bowler after Anil Kumble to accomplish the milestone of 500 Test wickets — a significant achievement for the seasoned off-spinner, especially after overcoming a challenging phase when he struggled to find his way out of a “dark tunnel” he had encountered.

Ashwin also joined the exclusive club of off-spinners with this achievement and remains India’s second-highest wicket-taker after Kumble, who retired with 619 wickets.

At present, it remains uncertain whether Ashwin will be available for the 4th and 5th Tests scheduled to take place in Ranchi from February 25-29 and Dharamsala from March 7-11.