In a display of sheer brilliance, Ravichandran Ashwin showcased his mastery of spin bowling on the third day of the ongoing Ranchi Test against England. Facing a 46-run deficit in their second innings, England’s hopes were quickly dashed as Ashwin dismantled their batting lineup with precision and finesse.
The veteran off-spinner reached a remarkable milestone, claiming his 351st Test wicket on home soil. His spellbinding performance saw him dismiss the formidable duo of Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope on consecutive deliveries, leaving the visitors reeling at the start of the day’s play.
Ashwin’s magic unfolded in the sixth over, with Duckett falling victim to a perfectly pitched delivery that tempted him into a fatal forward press. The ball soared into the waiting hands of Sarfaraz Khan at forward short leg, setting the tone for Ashwin’s dominance.
Continuing his onslaught, Ashwin deceived Pope with a delivery that held its line, catching the English batsman off guard as he expected turn. The resulting lbw decision, confirmed by the review, sent Pope packing for a first-ball duck, adding to England’s woes.
WATCH: Ashwin takes back to back 2 wickets in Ranchi
Earlier in the day, India staged a remarkable fightback, led by the resilient batting display of Dhruv Jurel. With India trailing by 46 runs, Jurel showcased his composure and skill, crafting a gritty maiden fifty to narrow England’s lead before being dismissed for 90 runs.
Jurel’s performance not only bolstered India’s innings but also hinted at a solution to their long-standing search for a reliable wicketkeeper-batsman. His successive displays of determination underline his potential as a crucial asset to the Indian team.
As the Ranchi Test unfolds, Ashwin’s heroics and Jurel’s emergence as a batting stalwart have injected new energy into the match, setting the stage for an enthralling battle between bat and ball. With India’s fightback gaining momentum, the stage is set for an intriguing conclusion to this gripping Test encounter.