Kanpur’s Green Park Stadium is set to host an exciting clash between India and Bangladesh in the second match of their Test series. Following a decisive win in the first Test, India aims for a clean sweep over Bangladesh with a victory in Kanpur. However, the spotlight is not just on the match; it is also shining brightly on R. Ashwin, who is on the verge of breaking multiple significant records at this historic ground. As Ashwin prepares for this challenge, he stands a chance to eclipse not just one but six notable milestones, including reaching a magical figure that holds great significance for him as well as for Virat Kohli.
R. Ashwin on the Brink of Touching the Magical Figure of 11
R. Ashwin was recently awarded the Player of the Match in the Chennai Test, a feat he will look to replicate in Kanpur. Should he excel with both bat and ball in this Test, he could become a strong candidate for the Player of the Series award. This accolade would mark the 11th time Ashwin has received this honor in his illustrious Test career. Currently, he leads the pack for Indian players with 10 Player of the Series awards, while Virat Kohli stands as the only other player in the current lineup to have won three such accolades. Legendary players like Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag have each claimed five, while Rahul Dravid, Harbhajan Singh, Anil Kumble, and Kapil Dev have achieved four. If Ashwin secures the Player of the Series title this time around, he will equal the legendary Muttiah Muralitharan’s record, underscoring his exceptional talent and consistency.
Six Records Ashwin Could Break in Kanpur
- Apart from the potential Player of the Series honor, Ashwin has the opportunity to break six more significant records during the match in Kanpur.
- With just one more wicket needed, Ashwin could become the first Indian bowler to take 100 wickets in the fourth innings of Tests, a remarkable achievement that speaks volumes about his skill in clutch moments.
- Ashwin has the chance to become the highest wicket-taker against Bangladesh in Tests, currently holding the record with 31 wickets, previously set by Zaheer Khan.
- He is also in contention to be the top wicket-taker in the World Test Championship. Presently, Josh Hazlewood leads with 51 wickets, but Ashwin is well-positioned to rival that tally.
- If he takes five wickets in an innings once more, he will surpass the legendary Shane Warne, bringing his five-wicket haul total to 38.
- Lastly, should Ashwin claim nine wickets in the Kanpur Test, he would leapfrog Nathan Lyon to become the highest wicket-taking off-spinner in the current era, solidifying his place among the all-time greats.
As the match day approaches, the cricketing world waits in anticipation. R. Ashwin has not only the opportunity to enhance his personal accolades but also to contribute significantly to India’s ongoing success against Bangladesh. With each record he approaches, he solidifies his legacy as one of the finest bowlers in modern cricket.
