Why did Ravichandran Ashwin pull out from England series midway? Here’s the reason

Ravichandran Ashwin has pulled out of India’s Test squad and will not be part of the ongoing third Test against England in Rajkot. The veteran spinner scripted history on Day 2 by becoming only the second Indian to enter the 500 Test wicket club, but a family emergency forced his team to miss the next day’s action.

The bowling all-rounder scored 37 runs and a wicket before leaving the team camp. His absence added to India’s woes, with England ‘bazballing’ their innings on a pitch that not offer much for the bowlers. The Indian Cricket Board released a statement on Friday night to confirm that Ashwin left the team with immediate effect due to a “family medical emergency”.

“Ravichandran Ashwin has withdrawn from the Test squad, effective immediately due to a family medical emergency. In these challenging times, the Indian Cricket Board and the team fully supports Ashwin.

“The board 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 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,” read the statement from the board.

While the official statement did not disclose the reason, it later emerged that Ashwin’s mother fell ill and was admitted to the hospital. Rajeev Shukla, the vice president of the governing body of Indian cricket, confirmed that Ashwin withdrew from the team to be with his mother.

India playing with 10 men?

The absence of Ashwin has resulted in India being reduced to a 10-member team. The home team will be able to field a substitute in place of Ashwin, but he will not be allowed to either bat or bowl. This is a huge blow for India as Ashwin’s contribution is vital in both departments.

Ashwin took the wicket of Zak Crawley to achieve the milestone of 500 wickets. The English openers were going hard while looking to overtake India’s first-innings score of 445. India were desperate for a wicket and Ashwin gave the breakthrough in the 14th over. Speaking after the day’s play Ashwin said that he dedicates this achievement to his father, who has always supported him at every stage.

“It’s been quite a long journey. Firstly, I’d like to dedicate this feat to my father. He’s been with me through thick and thin and probably had a heart attack every time he’s watched me play. His health has probably gone for a toss because of that,” he had said.