The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced that Ravichandran Ashwin, India’s star spinner, will rejoin the squad on Day 4 of the ongoing five-match Test series against England, following a short absence prompted by a family emergency.
The cricket board said, “The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is pleased to announce the return of R Ashwin to the squad after a brief absence due to a family emergency.”
Previously, Ashwin had to temporarily step away from the squad following Day 2 of the 3rd Test in Rajkot to address a family emergency. He reportedly had to depart for Chennai to tend to his ailing mother just hours after achieving the prestigious milestone of 500 Test wickets on the second day of the match.
“Both R Ashwin and the team management are pleased to confirm that he will be back in action on Day 4 and will continue to contribute towards the team cause in the ongoing Test match,” the BCCI added.
What more did the BCCI say?
In its statement, the BBCI said that the team management, players, media, and fans have demonstrated profound understanding and empathy, recognising the paramount importance of family, adding that both the team and its supporters have remained steadfast in their support of Ashwin throughout this difficult period, and the management is thrilled to have him back on the field.
“Ashwin and his family respectfully request privacy as they navigate through these trying times,” it further said.
Ashwin joined the prestigious 500 Test wicket club during Day 2 of the third Test against England in Rajkot. He stood at 499 wickets at the conclusion of the second Test in Vizag and secured his 500th wicket with the dismissal of Zak Crawley on Day 2 of the third Test.
(With PTI inputs)