Ravichandran Ashwin Becomes Second-Fastest To 500 Test Wickets

Rajkot: India’s veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin achieved a historic milestone by becoming the fastest Indian bowler to claim 500 Test wickets. This feat was accomplished during the ongoing third Test against England in Rajkot. Ashwin reached this milestone in his 98th Test match, falling just shy of Muttiah Muralitharan’s record of 87 matches. He surpassed the previous Indian record holder, Anil Kumble, who achieved the milestone in 105 matches.

Fastest to 500 Test wickets:

1. Mutthiah Muralidaran (Sri Lanka) in 87 matches
2. Ravichandran Ashwin (India) in 98 matches
3. Anil Kumble (India) in 105 matches
4. Shane Warne (Australia) in 108 matches
5. Glenn McGrath (Australia) in 110 matches
6. Courtney Walsh (West Indies) in 129 matches
7. James Anderson (England) in 129 matches
8. Stuart Broad (England) in 140 matches

Ashwin’s achievement places him among the elite group of bowlers in Test cricket history. He joins the ranks of legendary off-spinners Muralitharan and Nathan Lyon as only the third off-spinner to reach 500 Test wickets. At 37 years old, Ashwin continues to prove his worth and consistency on the international stage.

The journey to 500 Test wickets reflects Ashwin’s remarkable career trajectory. Initially recognized as a talented top-order batsman, Ashwin transitioned to off-spin bowling due to a back injury during his formative years. Since his Test debut in 2011, Ashwin has showcased exceptional skill and dedication, quickly establishing himself as a key player in the Indian cricket team.

Beyond Test cricket, Ashwin has also made significant contributions in limited-overs formats, with notable performances in ODIs and T20 Internationals. With 156 wickets in ODIs and 72 wickets in T20Is, Ashwin’s versatility and impact across all formats further underline his significance in Indian cricket.