Legendary cricketer Anil Kumble has expressed his delight at Ravichandran Ashwin’s achievement of entering the prestigious 500-wicket club in Test cricket, attributing the off-spinner’s success to his unwavering desire to learn and ability to overcome challenges.
With 516 wickets to his name currently, Ashwin stands as the second highest wicket-taker for India in Tests, following closely behind Kumble, who has 619 wickets. Speaking about Ashwin’s accomplishment, Kumble emphasized the off-spinner’s remarkable consistency and match-winning performances over the past decade.
“Ashwin has faced numerous challenges throughout his career, but he has consistently risen above them all. His dedication to the game and his unwavering commitment to excellence are truly commendable,” said Kumble, speaking at a felicitation ceremony organized by the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association to honor Ashwin for completing 100 Tests and reaching 500 wickets.
Kumble also highlighted the immense pressure and expectations that come with playing cricket in India, particularly for established players like Ashwin. Despite the sky-high expectations from fans, Ashwin has managed to maintain his performance standards and deliver consistently for the team.
“In India, the expectations are incredibly high, and anything less than exceptional performance is often deemed a failure. Ashwin has handled this pressure admirably, showcasing his mental strength and resilience,” added Kumble, praising Ashwin’s ability to thrive under pressure.
As Ashwin continues to etch his name in cricketing history, Kumble’s words of praise serve as a testament to the off-spinner’s remarkable journey and enduring contribution to Indian cricket.
