The closure of the third Test of the Border Gavaskar Trophy (2024-25) series brought curtains to Ravi Ashwin's glorious 13-year-long international career. A crafty off-spinner, a useful lower-order batsman, and a tactically astute cricketer were some of Ashwin's standout traits that made him a complete cricketer. 

During his prime, Ashwin propelled the Indian side to glorious wins and played a pivotal role in the national side's success in the 2011 World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. Besides, India's home dominance in Test cricket can majorly be attributed to his all-round heroics with the bat and the ball. 

His sudden retirement midway through the series sent shockwaves through the cricketing fraternity. Ever since his retirement, Ashwin has been receiving countless tributes and wishes from former cricketers wishing him well for his future endeavors. 

See also: Watch: Lyon, Cummins heart-warming gesture to Ashwin on his retirement

Ashwin makes his call log public on social media

In recent times, social media has been buzzing with Ashwin's shocking retirement news. The 38-year-old spin-bowling all-rounder has received numerous congratulatory wishes on his X (formerly Twitter) account. While responding to the wises, Ashwin casually revealed a screenshot of his call log which had the names of legendary Sachin Tendulkar and Kapil Dev mentioned on it. 

If some one told me 25 years ago that I would have a smart phone with me and the call log on the last day of my career as an Indian cricketer would look like this☺️☺️, I would have had a heart attack then only. Thanks @sachin_rt and @therealkapildev paaji🙏🙏 #blessed pic.twitter.com/RkgMUWzhtt

— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) December 20, 2024

Calling it a "heart attack" post, the purpose behind making this post viral was to express his gratitude and acknowledge the role the living legends played in helping him shape his glorious cricketing career. The photo of his call log is believed to be from the final days of his international career. Ashwin was reportedly in touch with both Kapil and Tendulkar moments before he made his retirement plan public. From this post, it can be understood that Sachin had interacted with him on Facetime while Kapil Dev got in touch with the spinner on WhatsApp.

While taking to X (formerly Twitter), Ashwin wrote that had someone informed him 25 years ago that his call log would appear the way it has been projected on his post, then he would probably not believe it and faint from a heart attack. Ashwin further adds that he feels immensely honored to have worked with them closely throughout his cricketing career, both on the field as well as off the field. 

Ashwin has previously shared the dressing room with the legendary batsman Tendulkar while representing India. His relationship with Kapil Dev, the captain of India's inaugural World Cup-winning team, has primarily been one of inspiration, occurring mostly off the field.

On December 18, 2024, the cricketing world was left stunned by the news of Ravi Ashwin's sudden announcement of retirement from international cricket following the conclusion of the Gabba Test. His retirement triggered an unprecedented wave of wishes that poured in from several corners of the cricket world, most notably from leading cricketing experts and former cricketers.

In a bid to pay a departing tribute to the spin-bowling wizard, Australian skipper Pat Cummins and top Aussie spinner Nathan Lyon gifted a signed Australian Test jersey on Wednesday. The indications of Ashwin's retirement became all too clear when he walked out with India captain Rohit Sharma and accompanied him during the press conference to address his international retirement.

See also: Travis Head doubtful for Melbourne Test? Cummins gives crucial update

Cummins and Lyon present the signed jersey

A video shared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), captured the very moment when the two Aussie players went up to Ashwin to hand a signed Australia Test jersey in the hallway of the iconic Gabba in Brisbane.

While giving him the signed shirt, Cummins was reportedly heard saying the following:

"Well done mate, thank you, you have been great."

Watch here:

A Legend Bids Adieu to International Cricket 👏👏

Hear what R Ashwin’s parting words were to the Indian dressing room 🎥🔽#TeamIndia | @ashwinravi99 https://t.co/6wtwdDOmzX

— BCCI (@BCCI) December 18, 2024

A peek into Ashwin's illustrious career

Ashwin started his Test journey in 2011 with a match against the West Indies, after which he established himself as a prominent player in red-ball cricket. Over the course of 106 Test matches, he bagged an impressive total of 537 wickets, which includes 37 instances of five-wicket hauls, while also accumulating 3,503 runs. 

Moreover, Ashwin's exploits with the bat also helped him evolve as a technically potent all-rounder across all formats. Ashwin currently holds the record of being the fastest Indian bowler to claim 350 Test wickets.

Today, Ravichandran Ashwin officially announced his retirement from international cricket following the Brisbane Test, which ended in a thrilling draw. The announcement, made alongside Rohit Sharma during a press conference, marked the end of an unforgettable chapter in Indian cricket. The moment was emotional, not only for Ashwin but for cricket fans around the world. Before the press conference, Ashwin was seen talking with Virat Kohli, and a warm hug between them spoke volumes about the bond they shared. Ashwin began his statement, “I pardon for not taking your questions. I am here to announce my retirement from international cricket.” After his announcement, tributes poured in from all over the cricketing world. Fans, former teammates, opposition players, and cricket experts all took a moment to appreciate Ashwin’s incredible impact on the game. 

Ashwin’s Legacy: Top Career Achievements

Ravichandran Ashwin’s career is marked by more than just impressive statistics. Here are the top achievements that define his career:

• 2nd Highest Wicket-Taker in Test Cricket for India: With 537 wickets, Ashwin became India’s second highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, with only Anil Kumble ahead of him on the list.
• ICC Player of the Year (2016): Recognized for his all-round brilliance across formats.
• Fastest Indian to 300 Test Wickets: Highlighting his consistency and skill

See Also: Ravichandran Ashwin retires from international cricket

Ashwin’s Top Memorable Moments

Ashwin’s career was filled with memorable performances. Here are some iconic moments that stand out:

• 2013 Champions Trophy Final: Ashwin bowled the final over under immense pressure, helping India clinch victory in a thrilling finish.
• 2022 T20 World Cup vs. Pakistan: His sharp cricketing mind shone through as he left the ball close to the leg stump in a tense moment, playing a key role in the team’s success.

Ashwin’s Impact Beyond Achievements

Ashwin’s legacy goes beyond records and accolades — he was integral to many of India’s most significant wins. His influence on the game and the lasting inspiration he provided to millions of fans will continue to echo throughout the cricketing world.

Despite the Brisbane Test draw, India had a sad day, as the 38-year-old Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket. 

After the end of the Brisbane Test, Ashwin announced his international cricket retirement. In the press conference, the legendary off-spinner said, "This will be my last year as an Indian cricketer in all formats at the international level. I feel there's a little bit of punch left in me as a cricketer, but I'd like to express that, showcase that in club-level cricket."

Skipper Rohit Sharma, who was sitting beside Ashwin, said, "Ashwin wanted to announce his retirement at Perth Test, but we convinced him to stay at pink ball Test." 

🫂💙🇮🇳

Emotional moments from the Indian dressing room 🥹#AUSvINDOnStar #BorderGavaskarTrophy #Ashwin #ViratKohli pic.twitter.com/92a4NqNsyP

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 18, 2024

See Also: Border-Gavaskar Trophy: The endgame for Indian cricket stars

Ashwin in the ongoing BGT 2024-25

In the ongoing five-match Test series in Australia, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, Ashwin played the second Test of the series. It was the day-night pink ball Test match, where Ashwin scored 22 and seven runs and picked up one wicket. However, India lost that Test match by ten wickets, and the hosts made the series 1-1 level. 

While Jasprit Bumrah-led team India went with Washington Sundar in the Test series opener at Perth, which India won by 295 runs, Ravindra Jadeja was selected in the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team for the Brisbane Test, where the all-rounder had an important role for the draw result. 

Ashwin's incredible career stats; first Indian bowler with 50 T20I wickets

Ashwin ended his international career with 537 Test wickets, 156 ODI wickets, and 72 T20I wickets. He was the first Indian bowler to record 50 T20I wickets. The off-spinner finished his Test career as the second most wicket-taker by an Indian bowler, as the off-spinner is behind the legendary Indian leg-spinner Anil Kumble, who had 619 Test wickets. 

With 765 international wickets, the off-spinner Ashwin ended as the second-leading wicket-taker for India in international cricket. Once again, Kumble is on top of this list with 953 international wickets.

In international cricket, Ashwin ended as the seventh most Test wicket-taker and 11th most international wicket-taker. 

Ashwin was also a dependable batter

The right-handed batter also scored 3503 Test runs, 707 ODI runs, and 184 T20I runs. He hit six centuries and 14 half-centuries in his Test career and one half-century in his ODI career. With four Test centuries at no.8 or lower, Ashwin holds the record for second most Test centuries at no.8 or lower, as the former New Zealand cricketer Daniel Vettori has the record with five Test centuries. Also, with 2403 Test runs at no.8 or lower batting position, Ashwin finished in the fifth position in the list of most run-scorers in the lower-order batting position (8-11). 

3500 runs and 500 wickets in Test career

Ashwin is the only second batter in Test cricket history to score 3500 runs and also picked up 500 wickets. The other name is the former English pacer Stuart Broad, who scored 3662 Test runs and took 604 Test wickets. 

Two ICC trophies

Ashwin was a playing member of India's ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 trophy-winning campaign. He was also a key member of India's ICC Champions Trophy 2013 trophy-winning journey, where he successfully delivered the final over of the rain-curtailed final against the hosts England. He successfully defended 15 runs in the final over as India won that match by five runs. He ended that tournament final with the bowling figures of 4-1-15-2.

Australian all-rounder Mitchell Marsh was dismissed in the key moment of Australia’s first innings of the Adelaide Test. It was a really confused moment where everyone was stunned. 

Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has bowled really well on the second day of the day-night pink ball Adelaide Test. At the beginning of the second session of the Adelaide Test, Mitchell Marsh surprisingly lost his wicket. 

Watch: Nitish Kumar Reddy's stunning perfect sixer in high-pressure moment

Clueless Mitchell Marsh didn't take the review

In the fifth over of the session, Marsh was caught behind during Ashwin’s over. Initially, the wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant appealed for it while Ashwin and other teammates were confused and only came with half-hearted appeal. While confused Marsh didn’t seem confident, non-striker end umpire Richard Illingworth gave him out. Marsh didn’t review that while the hosts had all three reviews remaining and the batter went back to the dressing room. 

Even after the umpire's decision, Ashwin was confused. Later, the replay cleared that there was a gap between the bat and the ball and Marsh hit his bat on his pad. So, Marsh completely failed to understand the situation as he probably misunderstood the bat-pad situation as the bat hitting the ball. 

...and the finger goes up! ☝ #MitchellMarsh walks as @ashwinravi99 strikes. It's game 🔛#AUSvINDOnStar 2nd Test, Day 2 👉 LIVE NOW! #AUSvIND | #ToughestRivalry pic.twitter.com/n6wpWmibU8

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 7, 2024

Marsh was lucky in the first session

Earlier, just before the dinner break, Marsh was lucky not to lose his wicket. During the second last over of the first session, Ashwin trapped Marsh. Marsh used his feat to come down to the ground and tried to defend Ashwin’s delivery. Ashwin and some Indian players appealed to that by thinking the ball hit the pad first. However, the bowling end umpire Richard Illingworth gave it as not out.

Ashwin was confident about the ball first hit the pad before the bat. While the Indian captain Rohit Sharma didn’t seem confident, especially when India already lost one review earlier in the innings, he ultimately decided to try luck by taking the review.

The third umpire had no conclusive evidence of whether the ball hit the bat first or pad first and ultimately decided to go with the umpire's call, which was not out. Later, the other wider angel of the replay clarified that the ball hit the pad first. Although the ball hit the stumps, Marsh would still be lucky as the impact was umpire's call. Although there was a slight confusion whether India lost the review or not, finally it was clarified that the visitors didn't lose the review. 

Ravichandran Ashwin, India’s record-breaking premier off-spinner, is all set to play his first-ever Test match at Perth’s Optus Stadium on Friday, November 22. This Test marks Ashwin’s fifth tour of Australia, and the 38-year-old is ready to showcase his skills on Australian soil, a place where his opportunities have often been limited in the past.

For the first time, Ashwin will be part of India's lineup for the Perth Test, with the team opting for him as the sole spinner. He replaces Ravindra Jadeja, who has often been India’s first-choice spinner outside the subcontinent in the last few years. In this high-stakes game, Ashwin’s inclusion signals a shift in the team management’s approach towards spin bowling, with the veteran expected to lead the charge.

Ashwin's journey and role in the Perth Test

Despite his impressive track record in Indian conditions, Ashwin has had a challenging time on Australian pitches. Across 10 Tests in Australia, he averages 42.15 with 39 wickets. However, his role in India’s recent Test series wins cannot be overlooked. Ashwin’s contribution, especially on the last two Australian tours, played a key role in India’s success, and this Test in Perth provides him with the perfect opportunity to prove his mettle once again.

This will be Ashwin’s first appearance on the Perth pitch, and his involvement comes after a long-standing trend of India opting for four-prong pace attacks in Australia. Historically, Ashwin was overlooked in favour of pacers, but with India’s change in strategy, the off-spinner will now be the lone spinner on what is likely to be a pace-friendly pitch. His selection has also been a signal of faith from the team management in Ashwin’s abilities, as he prepares to take on the challenge on this difficult surface.

A shift in India’s strategy: Ashwin and Nitish Kumar Reddy

Ashwin’s inclusion also comes with an interesting twist—Nitish Kumar Reddy, the seam-bowling all-rounder, is set to make his debut as India’s latest Test cricketer. This marks a change in India’s approach, with both Reddy and Ashwin expected to provide key contributions with the ball and bat. The 38-year-old will be looking to make the most of this opportunity to cement his place as a core member of India’s Test squad.

Ashwin’s absence from previous Australian tours, including the 2018 series when India played their first-ever Test at the Optus Stadium, left a gap that pacers struggled to fill. The team had opted for a fourth fast bowler, with Umesh Yadav unable to provide the control needed on the surface. In the end, part-time off-spin from Hanuma Vihari proved crucial during that series. However, Ashwin's inclusion now offers India the chance to strengthen their bowling attack with a world-class spinner in foreign conditions.

It will be interesting to see how Ashwin adapts to the conditions, particularly under the leadership of Jasprit Bumrah, marking the first time in his career that Ashwin will play under a bowling captain. This shift in leadership dynamics might bring a fresh perspective to Ashwin’s approach, as he partners with Bumrah in a game that could determine India’s success in this crucial Test series.

Ashwin's selection for this Test is not just a matter of strategy; it represents a new phase in his international career, where he gets another opportunity to prove that he belongs on the world’s biggest stage. His past experiences and resilience in the face of challenges will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in the outcome of this match.

See Also: “Pacers leading teams should happen more”: Pat Cummins

As Ashwin prepares for his Perth Test debut, all eyes will be on him to see how he tackles the challenge. With his extensive experience and the backing of the team management, this could be the turning point in his career in Australia. India’s decision to trust Ashwin as their lead spinner in this Test marks a bold move, and it’s one that could have a significant impact on the team’s chances of victory in this crucial series.

The rivalry between India and Australia in Test cricket is one of the most celebrated contests in the sport. With a history dating back to 1947-48, this clash has produced unforgettable matches, marked by exceptional performances from legendary players. While batsmen often take the spotlight, bowlers play an equally critical role in securing victories in the longest format of the game.

Indian bowlers, both spinners and pacers, have risen to the challenge against Australia, delivering spellbinding performances that have etched their names in cricketing history. Here’s a look at the top five Indian bowlers with the most wickets against Australia in Test cricket.

5. Kapil Dev – 79 wickets

India’s first World Cup-winning captain, Kapil Dev, was a masterful all-rounder who thrived against Australia. In 20 Tests between 1979 and 1992, Kapil claimed 79 wickets at an impressive average of 25.35. His fiery spell of 8/106 in Adelaide during the 1985-86 series remains etched in memory, as he dismantled a strong Australian batting lineup led by Allan Border.

4. Ravindra Jadeja – 89 wickets

A modern-day maestro, Ravindra Jadeja has emerged as a consistent performer against Australia. In 17 Tests, Jadeja has taken 89 wickets at an average of 18.89, showcasing his ability to excel in both Indian and Australian conditions. His 7/42 at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium in 2023 stands out as one of the most dominant spells in recent history, helping India secure a resounding victory.

3. Harbhajan Singh – 95 wickets
Harbhajan Singh’s magical spells against Australia earned him the nickname "The Turbanator." In 18 Tests, he picked 95 wickets, highlighted by his stunning performance in the 2001 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With 32 wickets in three matches, including a memorable hat-trick at Kolkata, Harbhajan proved to be Australia’s nemesis time and again. His best figures of 8/84 underline his dominance over the mighty Aussies.

2. Anil Kumble – 111 wickets

Anil Kumble, India’s highest wicket-taker in Tests, was a force to be reckoned with against Australia. Over 20 matches, he scalped 111 wickets, including 10 five-wicket hauls. Kumble’s precision and ability to exploit spin-friendly conditions made him Australia’s biggest challenge. His iconic 8/141 at the Sydney Cricket Ground during the 2003-04 tour remains one of the finest spells by an Indian bowler Down Under.

1. Ravichandran Ashwin – 114 wickets

Sitting at the top of the list is Ravichandran Ashwin, who has taken 114 wickets in 22 Tests against Australia. Known for his tactical brilliance and versatility, Ashwin’s standout performance came in Chennai in 2013, where he recorded figures of 7/103 and 5/95. With an impressive mix of spin variations, Ashwin continues to trouble Australian batters both at home and away, cementing his legacy as one of India’s finest.

India’s bowlers have played a pivotal role in scripting historic victories against Australia. From Kapil Dev’s fiery pace to Ashwin’s guileful spin, these legends have consistently delivered match-winning performances. Their ability to adapt to vastly different conditions in India and Australia has made the rivalry thrilling to watch.

See Also: The Future of KL Rahul: Opportunities and Challenges

As India and Australia continue to produce epic battles on the field, the legacy of these iconic bowlers serves as a reminder of the importance of taking 20 wickets to win a Test match. With each series, new stars emerge, but the contributions of these stalwarts will forever remain an integral part of this storied rivalry.

Chennai Super Kings is one such franchise that has enhanced the fame and definition of the Indian Premier League. Being a five-time champions side helmed under the captain cool, MS Dhoni, the Super Kings are prominent for the gameplay and their humongous fanbase. But, they had a forgettable 2024 stint, as they had closely missed qualifying for the playoffs, citing significant issues regarding players' inconsistency and the injury of leading campaigners.

But, with the Mega Auction coming ahead, the Yellove army will get a chance to restructure their team and plan for the long term, as a few of them from the roster will likely play their last in the times ahead. Based on the released retention list and voids present on the side, here is a list of the five players that Chennai Super Kings should try for in the coming 2025 IPL Mega Auction

Rishabh Pant

Rishabh Pant should be on the team's player acquisition plans' significant target list. The primary reason behind this would be evident amongst several cricket fanatics. With Mahendra Singh Dhoni possibly playing his last IPL after his cornerstone contributions to the cricketing world, Chennai Super Kings would be eager to acquire the services of an emerging wicketkeeper batter.

Since his IPL inception, Pant has been part of Delhi Capitals for over seven editions, implying his pivotal impact creation for his roster. But, with him parting ways from his career shuttler, it will be intriguing to see if Rishabh Pant would be a part of a team with his idol. After making a stellar comeback from a life-threatening injury, he has made 446 runs in 13 matches, averaging over 41. 

Ravichandran Ashwin

Ravichandran Ashwin has been one of the cornerstones of the Indian spinners ecosystem. But, before making a mark on the International cricket space, Ashwin was a part of the Yellow squad since its inception. He evolved as one of the best spinmeisters across all game formats, especially in the red-ball format.

Though Ashwin has played for four teams, Rajasthan Royals being the recent one, his consistency and intent must be the major USP. Also, with his recent dominance as one of the best bowlers in test cricket, the local boy wouldn't mind returning to the side that has given him all. The Super Kings will target to have an experienced spinner, and he can prove to be their best option. In the previous edition, he had scalped nine wickets in 15 matches at an economy of eight. 

Washington Sundar

Washington Sundar would be one of the players under the Super Kings auction management's auction radar, thanks to his impeccable performance in their recent whitewash campaign by New Zealand, where his spinning efforts went in vain. Many fanatics would vividly remember his batting contributions in the nick of time during the previous 2022 Border-Gavasker Trophy down under.

Sundar, who played for Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL 2024, was not retained by his franchise and will be auctioned off. With Chennai retaining Ravindra Jadeja and Shivam Dube ahead of the auction, another all-rounder could do them good. With the side requiring a long-term emerging spinner, Sundar can cater to those needs, and his local roots act as the cherry on top. In 2024, he didn't get a chance to display his calibre and scalped just one wicket in two appearances. 

Also Read: IPL 2025: Top 5 Best Retentions during the 2025 IPL Mega Auction

Devon Conway

Devon Conway is seen to be one of the players that the five-time winners may exercise their Right-to-Match (RTM) option or pay big for in the mega auction. The group is recognised for its stability and consistency and has placed a high faith level in its overseas players, with Devon Conway has maintained that tradition.

He missed the IPL 2024 season with a thumb injury, and his absence contributed to the franchise's failure to qualify for the playoffs. The Southern side should be eager to get him back into the auction. In his memorable 2023 stint, he has made a colossal 672 runs in 16 matches, averaging over 49.

Rachin Ravindran

Rachin Ravindra is currently one of the intriguing and emerging stars in world cricket, and he's mainly performed brilliantly in the Indian sub-continent, with his recent performance in the clean sweep India test series and the 2023 World Cup.

A calm demeanour, 24 years of age, a match-winner with the bat, and a handy spinner – all elements of Rachin Ravindra are perfect for the team to acquire him for long-term purposes. Though he had a shaky start in his first IPL appearance, his calibre signifies promise, which the Chennai Super Kings highly need. In 2024, he has made just 220 runs in ten matches, but it will be a terrain of a task for the side as many sides are willing to bid for him in the forthcoming Mega Auction.

The deadline for IPL retentions has been surpassed and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have made the decision to retain Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, Matheesha Pathirana, and MS Dhoni who will now feature as an uncapped player following his international retirement in 2019. This gives them the cushion of a staggering 55 crore in their purse enabling them to recruit a new face in the next IPL season. 

While their attention may be on the star wicket-keeper batter Rishab Pant who is all but released by the Delhi Capitals, the Chennai-based outfit may face stiff competition as other franchises will also be vying to secure his services. In such a scenario, the veteran spin-bowling all-rounder Ravi Ashwin emerges as a likely candidate who CSK could be after in this mega auction. The 38-year-old was a key figure in the CSk squad before parting ways in 2015. 

A potential return on the cards for Ravi Ashwin

According to emerging reports, Ashwin made a startling confession to play for his old franchise Chennai Super Kings. Ashwin was previously associated with the Yellow Brigade since the inception of IPL in 2008. During his formative years, CSK played a pivotal role in shaping his professional cricketing career. He evolved as a player under the leadership of MS Dhoni and was primarily responsible for driving the dominance of the franchise in the early 2010s.

Ashwin has claimed an astonishing 120 wickets for the CSK at a very competitive average of 23.7 between the period of 2009 and 2015. He is the third-highest wicket-taker for CSK in the IPL and is more than a handy customer with the bat lower down the order. Ashwin’s addition to the CSK squad can certainly bolster CSK’s spin bowling department. The off-spinner can operate in tandem with Ravindra Jadeja to wreak havoc on the batters on a spin-friendly Chennai pitch. 

Furthermore, the report suggests that CSK is likely to utilize their Right to Match (RTM) card for the experienced New Zealand opener, Devon Conway. The left-handed batsman has delivered commendable performances for the Chennai franchise, accumulating 924 runs at an impressive average of 48.63 and a strike rate of 141.28.

India’s star spinner, Ravichandran Ashwin, achieved a historic milestone on Day 1 of the second Test against New Zealand in Pune. Ashwin surpassed Australia’s Nathan Lyon to become the all-time leading wicket-taker in the history of the World Test Championship (WTC), cementing his legacy as one of the greatest spinners in modern cricket.

Ashwin, who had 186 wickets before this match, needed just two wickets to overtake Lyon. He accomplished the feat early in the match by dismissing New Zealand openers Tom Latham and Will Young, bringing his total WTC tally to 188 wickets.

India make key changes as New Zealand set solid start

India made three significant changes to their lineup, bringing in Shubman Gill, Akash Deep, and Washington Sundar, while KL Rahul, Mohammed Siraj, and Kuldeep Yadav were left out. New Zealand, on the other hand, made one change, with left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner replacing Matt Henry, who was out due to a "glute niggle."

New Zealand reached 92/2 at lunch, with Devon Conway batting on 47 and Rachin Ravindra on 5. Despite Ashwin’s record-breaking spell, the Black Caps made a steady start, having won the series opener in Bengaluru. With spinners expected to play a crucial role in Pune, both teams are bracing for a tightly contested match as New Zealand aims for their first series victory in India.

See Also: Shubman Gill replaces star India batter in the second Test against New Zealand

WTC highest wicket-takers

The World Test Championship (WTC) has seen some of the best bowlers dominate with their consistent wicket-taking abilities. At the top of the list is India's Ravichandran Ashwin, who now holds the record with an impressive 188 wickets, surpassing Australia's Nathan Lyon, who follows closely with 187 wickets. In third place is another Australian, Pat Cummins, with 175 wickets, showcasing his prowess as a fast bowler. Mitchell Starc, also from Australia, claims the fourth spot with 147 wickets, while England's Stuart Broad rounds off the top five with 134 wickets, reflecting his longevity and success in the longest format of the game.