R Ashwin added another feather to his cap on Day 1 of the first Test between India and West Indies in Antigua, as he broke the record for most five-wicket hauls in Test cricket by a fast bowler.
The Indian off-spinner took 5-101 in West Indies’ first innings, his 33rd five-wicket haul in Tests, surpassing the previous record of 32 held by England’s James Anderson. Ashwin also moved into sixth place on the all-time list of bowlers with the most five-wicket hauls, behind Muttiah Muralitharan (67), Shane Warne (61), Anil Kumble (61), Dale Steyn (43), and Ravindra Jadeja (36).
Ashwin’s record-breaking performance was all the more impressive given that he was bowling on a flat pitch in Antigua. He was able to extract turn and bounce from the surface, and he also bowled with great control, conceding just 101 runs in his 34 overs.
Ashwin’s five-wicket haul helped India to bowl West Indies out for 243, and the tourists then went on to build a commanding lead of 252 runs by the end of the day.
In addition to breaking Anderson’s record, Ashwin also became the first Indian bowler to take 700 wickets in international cricket. He reached the milestone when he dismissed West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite for 28.
Ashwin’s achievement is a testament to his longevity and consistency at the highest level. He has been one of the world’s leading bowlers for over a decade, and he shows no signs of slowing down.
With his record-breaking performance in Antigua, Ashwin has cemented his place as one of the greatest bowlers in Test cricket history. He is now just one wicket away from equaling Kumble’s record of 61 five-wicket hauls, and he will be hoping to add to his tally in the upcoming Test matches against West Indies.
Ashwin’s Record-Breaking Performance Joins Him in an Elite Club
R Ashwin’s record-breaking performance in the first Test against West Indies has seen him join an elite club of bowlers who have taken 33 or more five-wicket hauls in Test cricket.
The club is currently made up of just six bowlers:
- Muttiah Muralitharan (67)
- Shane Warne (61)
- Anil Kumble (61)
- Dale Steyn (43)
- Ravindra Jadeja (36)
- R Ashwin (33)
To be included in this club, a bowler needs to be able to consistently take wickets in all conditions, against all types of batsmen. Ashwin has certainly proved that he has the ability to do this, as evidenced by his record of 700 wickets in international cricket.
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Ashwin’s record-breaking performance is a testament to his skill, his dedication, and his longevity at the highest level. He is a true great of the game, and his name will be remembered alongside the other greats of Test cricket for many years to come.