Ashwin Withdraws from Third Test After Reaching 500 Wickets, Citing Family Emergency

Rajkot, India: Just hours after achieving the prestigious feat of claiming his 500th Test wicket, Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has been forced to withdraw from the ongoing third Test against England due to a family medical emergency.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the news in a late-night statement on Friday, expressing their full support for Ashwin and his family during this difficult time.

“The BCCI extends its heartfelt support to the champion cricketer and his family. The health and well-being of the players and their loved ones are of utmost importance,” the statement read. “The Board requests respect for the privacy of Ashwin and his family as they navigate through this challenging time.“

Ashwin’s withdrawal comes as a significant blow to the Indian team, who are currently in a strong position in the Test match. He claimed his landmark 500th wicket on the second day, dismissing Ollie Pope caught and bowled. However, the off-spinner’s focus has now shifted to his family emergency, and the BCCI has assured him of all necessary assistance.