'Didn't Allow Me To...': R Ashwin Reflects On 5-Run Penalty During IND vs ENG 3rd Test
Ashwin & Dhruv Jurel (AP Photos)
Indian spin veteran, Ravichandran Ashwin made headlines for two starkly different reasons on Day 2 of the third Test against England at Rajkot on Friday. On a day that will be remembered for its highs and lows, Ashwin achieved the magnificent milestone of 500 Test wickets, joining the exclusive club of most elite bowlers.
IND vs ENG: Ashwin took ownership of unintentional pitch penalty
However, this historic accomplishment was accompanied by a moment he'd likely wish to forget—a five-run penalty levied against India due to his unintentional breach of the ICC's protected area on the pitch.
The incident saw England handed an unusual advantage of starting their innings with 5 runs on the board without facing a ball. The Ashwin five-run penalty incident drew considerable attention, overshadowing his milestone of becoming only the second Indian bowler after Anil Kumble to grab 500 Test wickets.
Reflecting on the day's events, Ravichandran Ashwin took responsibility for the mishap in a post-match press conference, attributing it to a lapse in judgment and mobility that saw him infringe upon the pitch's protected area. This area, as defined by the ICC, is a crucial part of the pitch designed to be free from interference, ensuring fair play.
"My poor motor skills didn't allow me to get off the pitch in time," said Ashwin.
Meanwhile, despite this setback, the match saw England's Ben Duckett shine with a stellar century, driving England to a strong position at 207-2 by the day's end.
The day’s narrative took another twist with the announcement of Ashwin's sudden departure from the Indian squad, owing to a family medical emergency, a development confirmed by BCCI secretary Jay Shah. India has started well on Day 3, as they have reduced the visitors to 290/5 at Lunch, trailing by 155 runs in response to the home team’s 445.
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