During the first Test against Sri Lanka in Mohali, veteran India off-spinner R Ashwin added one more feather to his already illustrious hat as he went past Kapil Dev's tally of 434 wickets to become the country's second highest wicket-taker in the longest format.

Ashwin returned with six scalps in India’s innings and 222-run victory at Mohali and his current tally stands at 436 wickets. Only legendary leg-spinner Anil Kumble is ahead of him among the Indian bowlers with 619 dismissals.

See Also: ‘I am happy for him’, Kapil Dev reacts as R Ashwin surpasses his tally of 434 wickets

Speaking on his Youtube channel, Ashwin said he is humbled to have surpassed Kapil’s tally and the off-spinner also revealed that he used to bowl medium pace as a child to become the next "Kapil Paaji."

"Feeling so humbled. 28 years ago, I was cheering for Kapil Paaji along with my da when he went past Richard Hadlee's record," Ashwin stated.

"Even in my wildest dream, I never thought of going past his tally of wickets because I always wanted to be a batsman especially when I started off as an eight-year old.

"In 1994, batting was my fascination. Sachin Tendulkar was just emerging into the scene and Kapil Dev, himself was a terrific striker of the ball," he added.

Ashwin is the fourth Indian bowler to claim more than 400 wickets in Test cricket. He also became the ninth highest Test wicket-taker of all time, taking over New Zealand great Richard Hadlee (431) and Sri Lanka's Rangana Herath (433) as well, apart from Kapil.

"In fact, I used to bowl medium pace on my dad's advice back then so that I can try to be the next Kapil Paaji."

"From then to become an off-spinner and to represent India for so many years... I never thought I will play for India. I am so grateful and so humbled on his achievement," he said.