New Delhi: Ravichandran Ashwin’s journey began on the dusty pitches of Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Born in 1986, his cricketing passion emerged early, leading him to the MRF Academy at the age of 12. Here, he honed his off-spin bowling under the guidance of legends like Sunil Subramaniam and L. Sivaramakrishnan.
Ashwin’s talent didn’t go unnoticed. He made his first-class debut for Tamil Nadu in 2006, impressing with his control and accuracy. His consistent performances earned him a call-up for the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2010, where he represented the Chennai Super Kings. The IPL provided Ashwin with a bigger platform and the opportunity to learn from seasoned cricketers like Shane Warne.
County Cricket Stint and International Breakthrough:
In 2011, Ashwin embarked on a county stint with Essex in England. This exposure to different pitches and conditions further refined his bowling, making him more adaptable. The experience proved pivotal as he returned to India a more mature and confident bowler.
His domestic success translated onto the international stage in 2011. Ashwin made his Test debut against the West Indies, taking a five-wicket haul in the second innings. He quickly established himself as India’s premier spinner, playing a crucial role in their overseas victories in Australia (2011–12) and England (2014).
Ashwin’s Peak and Challenges:
Ashwin’s peak came in the 2015–16 season, where he topped the ICC Test bowling rankings. His variations, including the carrom ball, bamboozled batsmen worldwide. He formed a formidable partnership with Ravindra Jadeja, helping India dominate Test cricket.
However, challenges emerged in the form of dip in form and criticisms about his bowling style. He was dropped from the Indian team in 2018 but fought back with determination, regaining his place with a string of impressive performances in domestic cricket.
Reinventing Yourself and Looking Ahead:
Adaptability has been a hallmark of Ashwin’s career. He has reinvented himself, adding new weapons to his arsenal, like the “Mankad” dismissal. He continues to be a vital cog in the Indian team, contributing with both bat and ball.
As Ashwin steps onto the field, his journey from Chennai clubs to Test stardom serves as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers.