Ravichandran Ashwin: The Accidental Spinner Who Achieved Greatness

Similar to how Anil Kumble wasn't initially a leg-spinner, Ravichandran Ashwin was also an aspirant opening batter prior to experiencing off-spin.

Although Ashwin refers to himself as a "accidental spinner," his accomplishments have not exactly been by coincidence. Ashwin has been dependable and unwavering since making his Test debut in November 2011, so reaching 500 wickets in the longest format is a merited achievement.


On Day II of this third Test, the 37-year-old finally claimed wicket No. 500 after being agonizingly trapped at 499 in the Visakhapatnam Test. He pitched it full and had England opener Zak Crawley caught at short fine-leg.

It is an exceptional accomplishment since, among India's top wicket-takers in Test cricket, only Kumble (619) is ahead of him.

Ashwin could have been one of the biggest players in Indian cricket history given his domination at home (347 wickets in only 59 games). Despite the fact that his abilities are valued, he doesn't really experience the fame he deserves.

Critics claim that he "overthinks and tries too many things which can lead to over-complicating matters."

Commentating on the current Test match, former England off-spinner Graeme Swann stated, "I've listened to all that he (Ashwin) has said." "He's virtually surpassed everyone else in skill level. He explains everything in detail, including why things happen, how to handle situations, and other related topics. Regarding it, he is rather forensic and scientific.

"I'll tell you what, it takes a lot of time to accomplish it, so it's not simple. Since he enjoys playing, I suggest that he is a professor of spin bowling.

For most individuals, it would be tough to maintain interest, but Ashwin finds it easy. His persona almost compels him to carry out that action. He freely admits that he is a student of the game. Swann said, "His strength is his constant urge to learn new things, grow, and try them out.

The "ineffectiveness" of Ashwin abroad has also been a source of discussion. His stats are not very impressive in the nations of SENA (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia). Ashwin has taken 67 wickets in 24 Tests in these four countries so far, whereas Kumble concluded with 141 scalps from 35 Test matches in SENA countries.

Is Ashwin to be judged just on that?

"Your success on away trips shouldn't be used to evaluate you. When you win a game and how often you help your team win are the metrics by which you should be evaluated.
Ashwin has often shown that," Swann said.

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