Image Source : BCCI Ravichandran Ashwin
It was extra of a sigh of reduction for Ravichandran Ashwin on day 3 of the continuing second Test between India and England on the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Five years since his all-round heroics in North Sound towards West Indies, Ashwin scored his fifth Test century, and subsequently grew to become the primary Indian participant to attain 100 and take 5 wickets in an innings of a Test for the third time. But greater than his private achievements, it was a job properly achieved for Ashwin after India suffered a collapse on the third morning.
“I will sleep well through the night, that is all that I am thinking. Even after the last Test, we spoke about how we are going to counter Leach and probably bring sweep to the game. Last time I was sweeping, I was 19 years old, I hit a bit of sweep shots well today. I am thankful the plan has paid off. Sort of had a very good day. I can’t say it’s been happening in the last three days, I have been practicisng with Vikram Rathore (batting coach), I would love to credit him with how my batting has come through over the last four- five matches,” stated Ashwin on the finish of day’s play.
Ashwin’s 134-ball century en path to his 106 helped India hand England a 482-run goal on a difficult Chennai monitor. The knock additionally witnessed a 96-un stand for the seventh wicket alongside Virat Kohli who struck 62 off 149 balls.
“I don’t know when the next Test is going to be here, but I am pleased. In the past, he’s (Ishant) been with me when I got hundreds at home and once Siraj came, I knew how to approach. I was thrilled for his batting and told him to go through the line of the ball. It was amazing to see how excited he was when I got my hundred. I don’t know what the team is feeling like but I am sure they are thrilled. I can’t thank the crowd enough, they have been very supportive,” he added.
Following the batting efficiency, Indian spinners decreased England to 3 down for 53 at stumps on the third day, requiring 429 extra runs to go 2-0 up within the four-match collection.