In a dramatic turn of events, Ravichandran Ashwin, the star bowler of the Indian national cricket team, had to abruptly withdraw from the Rajkot Test against England due to a medical emergency involving his mother. The incident unfolded between Day 2 and Day 3 of the third Test, leaving Ashwin’s wife, Prithi, in a state of distress. She revealed that while lying in the ICU of a Chennai hospital, her mother-in-law, Chitra Ravichandran, was slipping in and out of consciousness. This unexpected crisis overshadowed Ashwin’s significant milestone of claiming 500 Test wickets, making it an emotionally challenging time for the cricketer and his family.

Challenging Test Series for Ashwin

The ongoing Test series between India and England has been a rollercoaster ride for Ravichandran Ashwin. In Rajkot, he achieved a significant feat by becoming the second Indian bowler, after Anil Kumble, to reach the milestone of 500 Test wickets. However, this momentous occasion was marred by the sudden collapse of Ashwin’s mother during the same Test. With the news of his mother’s condition, Ashwin left the Test midway and rushed back to Chennai to be by her side.

The Role of Cheteshwar Pujara and Rohit Sharma

Prithi Ashwin, R Ashwin’s wife, shared that instead of calling Ashwin directly, she reached out to fellow cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara for assistance in arranging Ashwin’s return. Pujara played a crucial role in facilitating communication between Ashwin and the team management. Additionally, Rohit Sharma provided support and comfort during this challenging time. Their collective efforts helped Ashwin navigate the difficult situation and prioritize his family’s well-being.

Ashwin’s Mother’s Concern and Ashwin’s Courage

Ravichandran Ashwin revealed that his mother questioned his decision to leave the Rajkot Test in her fragile state. Despite this, he showed incredible courage and made the difficult choice to prioritize his family over cricket. Ashwin’s wife, Prithi, expressed her gratitude towards Pujara, Rohit Sharma, and former cricketer Rahul Dravid, who provided essential support during this testing period.

• Ravichandran Ashwin withdraws from the Rajkot Test due to a medical emergency involving his mother
• His mother collapses during the Test, prompting Ashwin’s immediate return to Chennai
• Ashwin achieves the milestone of claiming 500 Test wickets, but it is overshadowed by the family crisis
• Prithi Ashwin reaches out to Cheteshwar Pujara and Rohit Sharma for assistance
• Ashwin’s mother questions his decision to leave the Test, but he prioritizes family

“She said from the hospital bed, ‘Why did you come?’ I didn’t know what to say. I managed to tell her, ‘Mom, you are most important to me right now’.”

Despite the personal challenges, Ravichandran Ashwin displayed immense courage during the third Test against England. His focus on family underscores the importance of balancing personal and professional responsibilities.