Ravichandran Ashwin Suddenly Withdraws From India Squad; Know Reason Given by BCCI

Rajkot: Because of a family medical emergency, spinner of the Indian cricket team Ravichandran Ashwin withdrew from the ongoing third Test match against England in Rajkot on Friday. He withdrew from the match a few hours after he became the second Indian bowler ever after Anil Kumble to take 500 Test wickets.

India will play the remainder of the third Test with 10 men and four specialist bowlers.

It is understood that Ashwin might not be available for the remaining two Test matches in Ranchi (Feb 25-29) and Dharamsala (March 7-11).

BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla in a post on X wrote that Ashwin’s mother was facing a medical emergency. “Wishing speedy recovery of mother of @ashwinravi99 . He has to rush and leave Rajkot test to Chennai to be with his mother” he posted.

In a media release, BCCI said, “Ravichandran Ashwin has withdrawn from the Test squad, effective immediately due to a family medical emergency. In these challenging times, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the team fully supports Ashwin,” BCCI said in a media release.

“The BCCI extends its heartfelt support to the champion cricketer and his family. The health and well-being of the players and their loved ones are of utmost importance. The Board requests respect for the privacy of Ashwin and his family as they navigate through this challenging time,” the statement added further.

“The Board and the team will continue to provide any necessary assistance to Ashwin and will keep the lines of communication open to offer support as needed. Team India appreciates the understanding and empathy of the fans and media during this sensitive period,” BCCI secretary Jay Shah was quoted as saying in the release.

Ashwin, who attended the post-match media conference to speak on his milestone, flew back to Chennai.