“I put my hand up and said I will start” – Ravichandran Ashwin on getting the new ball on Day 3 of India vs England 4th Test.

In a strategic move during Day 3 of the Ranchi Test, veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin had the opportunity to bowl with the new ball for the first time in the ongoing Test series against England.

This decision proved fruitful as Ashwin swiftly claimed the wickets of Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope on consecutive deliveries. Utilizing the new ball to his advantage, Ashwin induced extra bounce to dismiss Duckett caught at short leg, followed by trapping Pope lbw for another duck in the match. Reflecting on this tactical shift, Ashwin shared his insights with the host broadcaster at the conclusion of Day 3.

Ashwin said “I have always enjoyed bowling with the new ball and today was one of those days where Rohit just said in the huddle, ‘You both (Ashwin) are starting. Who wants to start?’ I put my hand up and said I will start the over from this side. The new ball has some sort of attachment. I love bowling with the speed (off the surface).”

Ashwin’s exceptional performance continued as he secured his 35th five-wicket haul in Tests, contributing significantly to bundling out the visitors for a mere 145 runs. This ensured that India was set a target of 192 to win the fourth Test. Considering Ashwin’s slightly subdued form in the series prior to this standout display, his timely resurgence significantly bolstered India’s prospects.