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Ravichandran Ashwin‘s exceptional performance in India‘s resounding victory over Bangladesh in the first Test match at Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium left a lasting impression. The off-spinner’s brilliance with both bat and ball was instrumental in India’s 280-run triumph.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s all-round excellence
In India’s first innings, with the team struggling at 144/6, Ashwin stepped up to deliver a magnificent century. His 113-run knock, forged in a 199-run partnership with Ravindra Jadeja, helped India reach a respectable total of 376. Ashwin’s innings showcased his versatility and ability to contribute significantly in all conditions.
While Ashwin failed to pick up a wicket in Bangladesh’s first innings, he returned to torment the visitors in their second dig. His exceptional bowling performance, which yielded figures of 6/88 in 21 overs, helped India bowl out Bangladesh for 234. This was Ashwin’s 37th five-wicket haul in Test cricket, equalling the record held by the legendary Shane Warne.
Ashwin’s heartwarming family time interaction
Despite his match-winning heroics, Ashwin revealed that he faced some complaints from his wife Prithi Narayanan and their two daughters. In a heartwarming video shared by the BCCI on social media, Prithi interviewed Ashwin after India’s victory.
During the conversation, Ashwin jokingly mentioned that Prithi and his daughters were upset with him for not coming to meet them on Day 1 of the Test match and waving at them.
“She kept complaining that I didn’t see her on the first day. I didn’t. For me, it’s very difficult for me to look out for the family when I am playing. In the middle of the game, but I do make a conscious effort because the children are always asking me, ‘Why didn’t you say hi’,” Ashwin said playfully.
Ashwin explained that it was difficult for him to focus on family during the intense moments of a match.
“I would like to defend myself here. I don’t always say hi. When you sit in the seat for 9 to 5 and all I see is Raj waving back at me like I have made up the two days,” he added.
Also READ: Fans erupt as Ravichandran Ashwin’s 6-fer rips through Bangladesh, guiding India to victory in Chennai Test
A special game calls for a special conversation 💙@ashwinravi99's family in a heartwarming interaction with him post Chepauk heroics.
P.S. – Ashwin has a gift for his daughters on this #DaughtersDay.
Watch 👇👇#INDvBAN | @IDFCFIRSTBank | @prithinarayanan pic.twitter.com/4rchtzemiz
— BCCI (@BCCI) September 22, 2024
Ashwin’s special connection with Chepauk
Ashwin also expressed his love for the MA Chidambaram Stadium, often referred to as Chepauk. He described the venue as a special place that brings out the best in him. The off-spinner’s success at the venue has been consistent over the years, and he has often delivered match-winning performances.
“I don’t know how to react because the first day was something that happened really quickly. I didn’t expect to walk in to bat here and get a hundred. I hadn’t batted in a while. It feels great. Every time I come here it feels special. I don’t know there is some energy in his ground that keeps me going.” Ashwin stated.
A heartfelt gesture
In a touching moment, Ashwin revealed that he would gift the ball with which he picked his five-wicket haul to his daughters as a special Daughter’s Day present. This gesture showcased his love and appreciation for his family and their unwavering support.
In the end, Ashwin thanked his wife for bringing him good luck and being there for him. “Thankyou for being there and bringing me good luck,” he concluded.
With the victory in the first Test, India took an unassailable 1-0 lead in the two-match series against Bangladesh. The second Test is scheduled to be played in Kanpur from September 27. Ashwin’s exceptional performance has set the tone for the series, and it will be interesting to see if he can continue his dominant form in the upcoming match.
