Team India's off-spinning allrounder Ravichandran Ashwin on Friday withdrew his name from the Rajkot Test. On Friday, Ravichandran Ashwin became the second-fastest bowler in the world to take 500 wickets on Day 2 of India vs England. However, after the completion of INDvsENG Day 2, BCCI announced Ashwin's departure due to a family medical emergency. As a result, fans wished Ashwin well wishes and started to wonder if Team India could get any substitute just like in the case of concussion. Below is everything you need to know-
What did BCCI say about Ashwin's withdrawal?
BCCI in its statement said, "In these challenging times, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the team fully supports Ashwin...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 Board requests respect for the privacy of Ashwin and his family as they navigate through this challenging time.
The Board and the team will continue to provide any necessary assistance to Ashwin and will keep the lines of communication open to offer support as needed. Team India appreciates the understanding and empathy of the fans and media during this sensitive period."
BCCI's Vice President Rajeev Shukla revealed that Ashwin's mother Chitra is facing a medical emergency. Shukla took to his X handle and wrote, "Wishing speedy recovery of mother of @ashwinravi99. He has to rush and leave Rajkot test to Chennai to be with his mother."
Can Team India get R Ashwin's substitution?
The answer is no. While Team India can certainly get a substitute fielder, in terms of bowling and batting, reporters suggest that Rohit Sharma & Co have to play with only 10 players. The law of concussion does not apply in case of R Ashwin as the cricketer has withdrawn and two days have been completed. As per ESPNcricinfo, Ashwin's withdrawal could leave India with only ten players, with three days of play left in the Rajkot Test. Ordinarily, playing substitutes are only permitted for players ruled out by concussions or Covid-19.