Ravichandran Ashwin, the veteran Indian cricketer, recently showcased a remarkable performance that led Team India to a convincing victory in the first Test match against Bangladesh. Playing on his home turf in Chennai, Ashwin excelled with both bat and ball, marking his presence as a pivotal player in the team. After the match, he took the time to enjoy precious moments with his family on the field, leading to a special interaction that was later shared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on social media.
A Special Family Interview
In the heartwarming video shared by BCCI, Ashwin was seen with his wife, Preeti, and their two daughters. During this intimate family interview, Preeti asked Ashwin a fun question that resonated with their daughters: “What gift will you give them on Daughter’s Day?” To which Ashwin humorously replied, “I will give them the ball with which I took five wickets.” This light-hearted exchange highlighted Ashwin’s playful side amidst his sportsmanship.
Preeti didn’t stop there. She inquired about Ashwin’s feelings regarding his performance during the Test, particularly on the familiar ground. Ashwin reflected, “I don’t know how to react to this. Something happened very quickly on the first day. I did not expect that I would come here to bat and score a century. It feels great. Every time I come here, it feels special.” His sentiments reveal the emotional connection he has with the game and the influence of the Chennai ground that seems to inspire him.
The Complaints of Family
During the interview, Ashwin candidly shared that his wife, Preeti, has a recurring complaint: she feels he rarely looks at her during his matches. This sentiment is echoed by their daughters as well. Ashwin mentioned, “I did not see her even on the first day. For me, it is very difficult to take care of the family when I am playing, but I try my best.” This statement underlines the challenges athletes face in balancing their professional commitments while nurturing family ties.
Ashwin’s Spectacular Performance
The Test match itself was a showcase of Ashwin’s cricketing prowess. In the first innings, he made a significant impact by scoring a stunning century, amassing 113 runs off just 133 balls, including 11 fours and 2 sixes. This performance not only set a solid foundation for the team but also energized the crowd. Furthermore, Ashwin’s bowling skills shone brightly in the second innings, where he claimed 6 wickets, ultimately leading India to victory and earning him the coveted Player of the Match award.
Ashwin’s blend of skill and humility, along with his dedication to both his sport and family, serves as an inspiring example for many. His time on the field may be charged with intensity, but moments like these remind fans that behind every athlete is a devoted family rooting for them.