'It taught me what to correct in my game' - R Ashwin reveals turning point of career

In a cricketing era dominated by rapid changes, Ravichandran Ashwin is set to etch his name in the record books as he gears up for his 100th Test match against England in Dharamsala on Thursday, March 7. As the veteran off-spinner looks back on a remarkable journey, it is impossible to ignore the shadows of the past, specifically the haunting 2012 series against England.

Back then, Alastair Cook's England scripted a historic 2-1 victory against India, which remains the last time India tasted defeat in a home Test series. Ashwin, however, faced an uphill battle, managing only 14 wickets at an average of 52.64, overshadowed by the English spin duo of Graeme Swann and Monty Panesar.

Reflecting on the upcoming landmark match, he emphasised the importance of the 2012 series, describing it as a significant occasion. He acknowledged the special journey over the years but remained focused on the task at hand, highlighting the unchanged preparation for the upcoming Test match, emphasising the team's commitment to securing a victory.

"The 2012 series against England was the turning point for me. It taught me what to correct in my game,” Ashwin was quoted as saying by TOI.

Recognising the significance of reaching his 100th Test, Ashwin humbly expressed that while it is a substantial milestone for him, its importance surpasses personal achievement. He said that the milestone holds more significance for his father, mother, wife, and children, acknowledging the collective sacrifices and challenges that families endure throughout a player's career journey.

"(It's) a pretty big occasion. More than the destination, the journey has been very special. It doesn't change preparation for this game. We have a Test match to win. 100th Test matters a lot to me, but it matters more to my father, mother, wife, and even my kids. My kids are more excited about the Test. Families go through a lot during a player’s journey. My father still answers 40 calls on what his son did during a game,” Ashwin added.

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When asked about his standout performances, the 37-year-old singled out the 2018-19 Birmingham Test as one of his finest spells in Test cricket.

"One of my finest spells in Test cricket has to be 2018-19 in Birmingham," the canny spinner added.

In the 99 Tests leading up to this milestone, Ashwin has been a stalwart, amassing 507 wickets at an impressive average of 23.91, with 35 five-wicket hauls and eight 10-wicket match feats.