Hours after Ravichandran Ashwin created history by becoming only the second Indian bowler to take 500 Test wickets, the India off-spinner withdrew from the ongoing third Test against England in Rajkot.
"Ravichandran Ashwin has withdrawn from the Test squad, effective immediately due to a family medical emergency. In these challenging times, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the team fully supports Ashwin," BCCI said in a media release. "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 statement added further.
Though the statement did not specify the medical issue, BCCI vice president Rajeev Shukla posted on X that it's off-spinner's mother, who has fallen sick. Ashwin flew back to Chennai yesterday.
How will Ashwin's departure affect Indian squad?
India will play the remainder of the third Test with 10 players, including four specialist bowlers. Ashwin might not be available for the remaining two Test matches in Ranchi (Feb 25-29) and Dharamsala (March 7-11).
Off-spinner Washington Sundar is likely to replace Ashwin in the playing XI.
Playing substitutes are only permitted for players ruled out by concussions or Covid-19.