40 Facts About Ravichandran Ashwin

Early Life and Education

Ravichandran Ashwin's journey to cricket stardom began in his hometown of Madras, Tamil Nadu. His early years were marked by a strong foundation in both academics and sports.

1. Ashwin was born on September 17, 1986, to Ravichandran and Chitra.
2. His father, Ravichandran, played cricket at a club level as a fast bowler.
3. Ashwin attended Padma Seshadri Bala Bhavan and St. Bede's Anglo Indian Higher Secondary School.
4. He started playing cricket at the age of nine for YMCA.
5. Chandrasekar Rao coached him during the early part of his career.
6. Ashwin represented the Indian under-17 team as an opening batter.
7. He initially took up medium pace bowling before switching to off spin.
8. He graduated with a BTech in Information Technology from SSN College of Engineering, Chennai.

Domestic Cricket and IPL Success

Ashwin's domestic career laid the groundwork for his international success. His performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL) brought him into the limelight.

9. Ashwin made his first-class debut for Tamil Nadu in December 2006.
10. He captained Tamil Nadu the following season.
11. He played for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the 2010 IPL.
12. His economical bowling in the 2010 IPL led to his maiden international call-up.
13. Ashwin was the leading wicket-taker and player of the tournament in the 2010 Champions League Twenty20.
14. He won the 2014 Champions League Twenty20 and two IPL titles (2010, 2011) with CSK.

International Debut and Test Career

Ashwin's international debut marked the beginning of a prolific career in Test cricket. His performances have been exceptional, especially in home conditions.

15. Ashwin made his Test debut against West Indies on November 6, 2011.
16. He became the seventh Indian bowler to take a five-wicket haul on debut.
17. Ashwin has taken 337 wickets in 55 matches at home at an average of under 21.
18. His away record has improved significantly in the last six years, with 149 wickets in 39 Tests at an average of 30.4.
19. Ashwin has won ten Man of the Series awards in Tests, the highest by an Indian cricketer.
20. As of February 2024, Ashwin is the highest-ranked bowler in the ICC men's player rankings.

Career Statistics and Achievements

Ashwin's career statistics highlight his all-round abilities and his significant contributions to Indian cricket.

21. In Tests, Ashwin has scored 3308 runs at an average of 26.67.
22. He has taken 501 wickets in Tests at an average of 23.93.
23. Ashwin has scored five centuries and 14 half-centuries in Tests.
24. He has taken more than 700 wickets in international cricket.
25. Ashwin has scored a century and taken five wickets in the same Test match on three separate occasions.
26. In 2016, he scored more than 500 runs and took more than 50 wickets, becoming the second Indian after Kapil Dev to do so.

Personal Motivation and Retirement Plans

Ashwin's dedication to the game and his personal motivation have been key to his longevity and success in cricket.

27. Ashwin remains highly motivated, driven by his daily effort and passion for the game.
28. He has not set any specific retirement timeline, focusing instead on his personal motivation and performance.
29. Ashwin clarified that his retirement will come only when he no longer feels the drive to improve his game.
30. He emphasized the importance of putting in extra effort every single day as he gets older.

Role in Indian Cricket Team

Ashwin's role in the Indian cricket team has been crucial to its success over the years. His contributions as a bowler and an all-rounder have been invaluable.

31. Ashwin is a key figure in India's Test squad.
32. He holds the top spot in the Test bowler rankings.
33. Ashwin has been part of the Indian team that won the 2011 Cricket World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy.
34. He is widely regarded as one of the most prolific off-spin bowlers of all time.

Personal Life and Family Influence

Ashwin's personal life and family have played a significant role in shaping his cricketing career. His family's support has been instrumental in his success.

35. Ashwin married his childhood friend, Prithi Narayanan, on November 13, 2011.
36. They have two daughters and reside in West Mambalam, Chennai.
37. Ashwin's father played cricket at a club level, influencing his early interest in the sport.
38. His father's involvement in cricket encouraged Ashwin to pursue his passion for the game.

Continuous Improvement and Legacy

Ashwin's continuous improvement and his legacy in Indian cricket are testaments to his hard work and dedication. He remains an inspiration for future generations.

39. Ashwin is a keen student of the game, constantly trying to improve and innovate.
40. He is one of the few players to have scored 3000 runs and taken 500 wickets in Tests, setting a high standard for future Indian cricketers.

Ashwin's Legacy in Cricket

Ravichandran Ashwin's journey from a young cricketer in Tamil Nadu to one of the most successful off-spin bowlers in cricket history is nothing short of inspiring. His dedication, hard work, and continuous pursuit of excellence have made him a key figure in Indian cricket. With over 500 Test wickets, multiple Man of the Series awards, and a significant impact in both domestic and international cricket, Ashwin's contributions are immense. His ability to adapt and innovate has not only brought him personal success but also inspired many young cricketers. As he continues to play, Ashwin remains a crucial part of the Indian team, setting high standards for future generations. His legacy extends beyond his statistics, embodying the spirit of perseverance and passion for the game. Ashwin's story is a testament to what can be achieved with unwavering commitment and love for cricket.