R Ashwin had picked up his 500th Test wicket on the second day of 3rd Test.
Team India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has withdrawn himself from the ongoing third Test against England in Rajkot due to a family medical emergency. Ashwin, had earlier completed the special milestone of 500 Test wickets and contributed 37 crucial runs with the bat in India's first innings on Friday (February 16).
"Ravichandran Ashwin has withdrawn from the Test squad, effective immediately due to a family medical emergency," the BCCI stated in a media release. "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," the release added.
BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla later stated on social media platform X that the cricketer has to leave for Chennai to be with his mother who is unwell. He wrote, “Wishing speedy recovery of mother of @ashwinravi99 . He has to rush and leave Rajkot test to Chennai to be with his mother.”
Ashwin's absence will be a massive loss for the hosts, who were hoping the 37-year-old would lead their comeback on the third day after Ben Duckett hammered an unbeaten 133 to take England to 207/2 at Stumps on Day 2, in reply to India's first innings total of 445.