Veteran India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin displayed his class with the bat on Day 3 of the second Test against England.
Ashwin came to the crease when the hosts were struggling at 106/6 in their second innings on a turning Chepauk track. However, he played batted with positive intent amid the tough situation.
The off-spinner shared a 96-run stand for the seventh wicket with Virat Kohli. After the Indian skipper got out on 62, he farmed the strike brilliantly to bring his fifth ton in the longest format of the game.
Speaking after the day’s play, Ashwin credited the India batting coach Vikram Rathour for his brilliant showing with the willow in recent times.
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“I can’t say it’s been happening in the last three days, I have been practising with Vikram Rathore. I would love to credit him with how my batting has come through over the last four-five matches,” he said.
This batting performance of Ashwin came after his brilliance in Australia, where he saved the match for India at SCG by batting more than 40 overs alongside Hanuma Vihari despite struggling with back spasm.
He was glad that he managed to do well in front of his home crowd.
“I don’t know when the next Test is going to be here, but I am pleased. Don’t know if I will play another Test in Chennai, and if at all, when…”
Ashwin was batting along with fast bowler Mohammed Siraj when he reached the three-figure mark. As soon as he completed the milestone, Siraj jumped in joy to celebrate it.
From the other end, Ashwin also enjoyed watching Siraj hitting a couple of sixes.
“In the past when, he’s (Ishant) been with me when I got hundreds at home and once Siraj came, I knew how to approach.
“I was thrilled for his batting and told him to go through the line of the ball. It was amazing to see how excited he was when I got my hundred.
“I don’t know what the team is feeling like but I am sure they are thrilled. I can’t thank the crowd enough, they have been very supportive,” Ashwin said.
The Indian team management discussed ways to combat left-arm spinner Jack Leach, who took 6 wickets in England’s 227-run victory in the series opener.
“I will sleep well through the night, that is all that I am thinking.
“Even after the last Test, we spoke about how we are going to counter Leach and probably bring sweep to the game.
“Last time I was sweeping, I was 19 years old, I hit a bit of sweep shots well today. I am thankful the plan has paid off. Sort of had a very good day,” Ashwin said.
Chasing 482 in the fourth innings, England were tottering at 53/3 at stumps on Day 3.
(With PTI inputs)
