IND vs ENG 2024: R Ashwin to rejoin India in Rajkot Test

Ravichandran Ashwin, who had left the Rajkot Test against England midway through owing to a family emergency, is set to join the team on the fourth morning, an official statement from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed.

Ashwin picked up his 500th Test wicket on Day 2 of the third Test between India and England in Rajkot when he dismissed Zak Crawley. The Tamil Nadu off-spinner attended the press conference at the end of Day 2 before leaving for home due to personal reasons.

Ashwin missed the entire action on Day 3 but the experienced campaigner is expected to rejoin the team by Lunch on Day 4. "Not sure but I think Ash bhai might be coming back," Kuldeep Yadav said while speaking to the host broadcaster ahead of play on the fourth day.

Also read: IND vs ENG: R Ashwin withdraws from Rajkot Test due to family emergency

Ashwin can be brought on to bowl whenever the Indian team requires his services despite missing an entire day's play. The umpires can waive the penalty time as well if they feel the player was off the field for "other wholly acceptable reasons, which shall not include illness or internal injury" according to the playing conditions.

BCCI gives statement on Ravichandran Ashwin's availability

After the Indian fans woke up to speculations of Ashwin's availability for the third Test, the BCCI cleared the air with an official statement, mentioning that the veteran spinner will be in action on Day 4.

"Both R Ashwin and the team management are pleased to confirm that he will be back in action on Day 4 and will continue to contribute towards the team cause in the ongoing Test match," the BCCI said in a statement.

India's cricket governing body also acknowledged the team management, players, media, and fans for understanding the importance of family as a priority.