Ranking top 10 'thug life' moments in cricket history

6. Ravi Ashwin vs Tim Paine – Come to India, it will be your last series

This episode would still be fresh in the mind of Indian fans. It was the third Test of India’s 2020-21 tour of Australia and India were fighting for a draw. Chasing 407 in Sydney, the visitors were restricted to 272/5. With over 50 overs of play left on Day 5, Australia’s win seemed a mere formality.

However, Hanuma Vihari and Ravichandran Ashwin joined forces and put up a blockathon show. While Pat Cummins tried to fire yorkers, Nathan Lyon tried to get some spin from the turf. However, none of the Aussie bowlers were able to pierce the duo’s defenses. With the bowlers struggling, Aussie skipper Tim Paine tried to help them in his own way.

“Can’t wait to take you to Gabba, Ash” – Paine had told Ashwin, referring to the venue of the fourth Test. However, Ashwin hit him back by saying – “Just like we wanna get you to India, maybe your last series.” India went onto draw the match and interestingly, the fourth Test at Brisbane saw the visitors walking away with a historic three-wicket win.