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Happy Birthday R Ashwin: Relive His Iconic All-Round Heroics Vs England In Chennai Test

R Ashwin's memorable knock in 2021 (X) R Ashwin's memorable knock in 2021 (X) 

Ravichandran Ashwin, one of the best spinners of his generation, is celebrating his 38th birthday today (September 17), and it is worth remembering one of his most memorable knocks as a batter. 

In 2021, during the second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, Ashwin delivered a performance that is still etched in the memories of cricket fans. On a challenging turning track, where batting seemed nearly impossible, Ashwin used his home ground advantage to score his fifth Test century, an innings that defied all expectations.

Virat Kohli And Ravi Ashwin's Clinical Partnership

The third day of the Test began with India in a shaky position. England had bowled well, and the pitch conditions made batting extremely difficult. However, two of India's finest, Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin, came together and changed the game. 

Virat Kohli displayed immense control and composure, playing spin with ease and accumulating runs with patience. Kohli's knock of 62 from 149 balls was laced with seven boundaries and was an exhibition of his class, especially in such tricky conditions.

Ravichandran Ashwin's 5th International Century

However, the limelight was taken by Ravi Ashwin who played an exceptional innings, was in the limelight from the moment he came to the crease. He played with remarkable confidence and scored freely. By lunch, Ashwin was unbeaten on 34 off just 38 deliveries, keeping the scoreboard ticking and the pressure off Kohli, who was well-set at the other end.

The partnership between Kohli and Ashwin appeared formidable, and both players seemed poised for centuries. However, England's recently retired Moeen Ali had other plans. He dismissed Kohli for 62 and trapped him leg-before wicket. 

Ashwin's Well- Constructed Innings 

Kuldeep Yadav came in next but didn't last long, scoring only three runs. Ashwin was left to fend for himself as wickets continued to fall at the other end. Ishant Sharma managed to stick around for a 24-ball stay and contributed seven runs. Ashwin was batting at 77 at this point, but things seemed difficult for him as wickets kept falling at the other end. 

Despite the pressure, Ashwin remained composed. He accelerated his innings and raced towards his century. With a towering six, he reached 97, and soon after, a mistimed shot resulted in a boundary that took him to his hundred. Ashwin jumped in delight and celebrated his century like a child receiving his favourite gift. It was a moment of sheer joy, not just for Ashwin but for the entire stadium.

Ravichandran Ashwin's All-Round Performance

Ashwin's innings was not just a milestone for him but also crucial for India as they piled on the runs. He ended with 106 runs off 148 deliveries, which showcased his resilience and skill in what was one of the finest innings of his career. His efforts, combined with his five-wicket haul earlier in the match, helped India secure a massive 317-run victory over England.