A good news for Team India as veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is set to join the squad from Day 4 of the ongoing third Test against England at Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot.
Ashwin, who recently completed 500 Test wickets, withdrew from the ongoing Test due to family medical emergency. Though BCCI didn't disclose any information with regards to Ashwin pulling out of the Rajkot Test , there were several reports that veteran off-spinner had to leave the squad in order to attend to his mother, who was hospitalized after falling sick.
Now, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed through a official statement that Ravichandran Ashwin will be joining the squad from Day 4 and will return to play in the ongoing Rajkot Test.
BCCI Statement on R Ashwin's return
"The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is pleased to announce the return of R Ashwin to the squad after a brief absence due to a family emergency. Ashwin had to temporarily withdraw from the squad after Day 2 of the 3rd Test in Rajkot to attend to a family emergency." BCCI stated in a press release.
"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's cause in the ongoing Test match." the board added.
Ahead of the Day 4 proceedings, Ravichandran Ashwin's teammate and off-spinner Kuldeep Yadav hinted that the Chennai-born cricketer is likely to make his return for the ongoing Test match against England in Rajkot.
"I am not sure but I think Ash bhai is someone, who is coming back I guess." Kuldeep Yadav told Dinesh Karthik on Jio Cinema ahead of Day 4.
'Ashwin and his family kindly request privacy' - BCCI
The BCCI appreciated team management and fans for showing their support to Ravichandran Ashwin and his family in challenging times. However, the board once again requested everyone to respect Ashwin and his family's privacy for the time being as they are navigating through tough times.
"The team management, players, media and fans have shown immense understanding and empathy, acknowledging the importance of family as a priority. The team and its supporters have stood united in support of Ashwin during this challenging period, and the management is delighted to welcome him back to the field.
"Ashwin and his family kindly request privacy as they navigate through these challenging times." the BCCI added in the official statement.
