Overwhelming correlation between Ashwin’s and India’s successes: Kumble
Indian cricketer R. Ashwin was felicitated by the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association in a glittering ceremony at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium on Saturday for his twin feats of becoming the first Tamil Nadu cricketer to play 100 Tests and only the second Indian to go past 500 wickets in Test cricket.
The starstudded event was attended by former ICC chairman and BCCI president N. Srinivasan, former India captains Anil Kumble and K. Srikkanth, and current BCCI president Roger Binny.
Kumble spoke about the similarities between his and Ashwin’s careers, starting with their engineering backgrounds and becoming accidental spinners.
“He is right up there with the best to have represented the country. His numbers are outstanding compared to the best in the sport and have been further embellished by his role in driving the team to victory. There is an overwhelming correlation between his and India’s successes,” said Kumble.
Kumble also felt Ashwin should have played his 100th Test much earlier than he did and praised his dedication in turning up for his club, TNPL, and
State side regularly.
Apart from the dignitaries who were present, Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, current India head coach Rahul Dravid and former coach Ravi Shastri also sent in their wishes via video recording.
“He has moved the craft of spin bowling forward through his hard work, dedication, innovation and desire to improve, and that’s a great legacy to have,” Dravid said about the 37yearold offspinner.
“He has moved our understanding and knowledge of spin bowling forward over the last 1516 years.
“Ashwin has left the art and science of spin bowling in a much better place.”
Shastri added, “Spinners mature with age, and you still have a lot of cricket left in you. It is an enormous achievement.”
Meanwhile, N. Srinivasan spoke with candour, saying, “This is an emotional meeting for me. Ashwin is my son. Playing 100 Tests and getting 500 wickets is beyond imaginable. He has overcome many obstacles and is a teamman; that is what I like about him.”
The TNCA bestowed upon Ashwin an exclusive event Blazer and a Mace, a special occasion stamp, a