New Delhi: Ravichandran Ashwin, India’s seasoned off-spinner has climbed to the number one spot in the latest ICC Men’s Test bowling rankings. This achievement follows his dominant performance in the recently concluded five-match Test series against England.
Ashwin displayed his mastery of spin throughout the series, claiming a staggering 26 wickets. He secured two memorable five-wicket hauls, playing a pivotal role in India’s victories in the final two Tests held in Ranchi and Dharamshala.
In Dharamshala, where Ashwin, playing his 100th Test match, picked up a match-winning 9 wickets, including a five-wicket haul in the second innings. This stellar display secured a resounding win for India by an innings and 64 runs in the final Test.
Ashwin also achieved the remarkable milestone of 500 Test wickets during the 3rd Test in Rajkot. He joins Anil Kumble as only the second Indian bowler to reach this prestigious landmark.
Jasprit Bumrah, India’s premier pacer, who previously held the top spot, slipped to number two in the rankings as Bumrah missed the crucial fourth Test in Ranchi, allowing Ashwin to acquire his position at the top.
Meanwhile, India’s captain, Rohit Sharma climbed a remarkable five positions to reach the sixth spot in the ICC Test batting rankings. This impressive jump makes him the highest-ranked Indian batsman in the list. Sharma’s consistent performance throughout the series saw him accumulate a total of 400 runs in his 9 innings.
