Ravichandran Ashwin Needs 5 Wickets to Set Historic Record in Gabba Test
India’s premier off-spinner, Ravichandran Ashwin, is five wickets short of a record. He would be the first bowler to take 120 wickets in Test series between India and Australia. The third Test of the series is at the Gabba in Brisbane, starting December 14. Ashwin will aim to etch his name in the record books.
India Level Series After Adelaide Defeat
India lost to Australia by 10 wickets in the second Test at the Adelaide Oval. It was a crushing defeat. The series is tied at 1-1. The next game is at Gabba, where Australia has a strong record. However, India has recent success at this ground. They famously defeated the hosts in the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, thanks to a match-winning knock by Rishabh Pant.
India’s batting lineup faltered in the pink-ball Test. It was despite their triumph two years ago. The visitors scored only 180 and 175 in their two innings. They struggled against Australia’s relentless pace attack. To turn the tide in Brisbane, India’s batters will need to produce a much stronger performance.
Pressure on India’s Bowlers, Ashwin’s Role Key
India’s fast bowlers must shoulder most of the burden at Gabba. The pitch there usually favors seamers. However, the role of spinners, particularly Ravichandran Ashwin, remains crucial. In the second Test, Ashwin replaced Washington Sundar but managed just one wicket in 18 overs.
To support captain Rohit Sharma’s plans to rotate his pacers, Ashwin must create pressure from one end. He must do this by restricting runs. His skill will be key, especially in tough conditions for spin bowling.
The Chase for a Historic Milestone
Beyond his duties, Ashwin can achieve a personal milestone. Ashwin has 115 wickets in India vs. Australia Tests. He is just behind Nathan Lyon, who has 118. Both players are vying to become the first bowler to claim 120 wickets in this iconic rivalry.
While Lyon is ahead, the third Test offers Ashwin an opportunity to overtake his rival. There is speculation that India might drop Ashwin for all-rounder Washington Sundar. This would interrupt Ashwin’s quest for the record.
Key Test Details
- Match Date: December 14, 2024
- Venue: Gabba, Brisbane
- Current Series Status: 1-1
India’s chances at Gabba depend on both batters and bowlers. For Ashwin, the stakes are high. He wants to secure his legacy in cricket history, not just win for the team.
