Sunil Gavaskar advocates captaincy opportunity for Ravichandran Ashwin, spinner responds with a cheeky remark

In a remarkable career spanning 13 years, Ravichandran Ashwin has etched his name as one of India's cricketing legends. With a staggering record of 99 Test matches, 507 wickets, 35 five-wicket hauls, 24 four-fors, over 3000 runs, and five centuries, the off-spinner's journey has been nothing short of iconic.

The imminent milestone for Ashwin is his upcoming 100th Test, a rare achievement that places him among the elite ranks of only 13 other Indian cricketers. Scheduled to take the field on March 7, Ashwin is set to join the exclusive club, marking another significant chapter in his illustrious career.

Following a stellar performance in the 4th Test against England in Ranchi, cricketing legend Sunil Gavaskar showered praise on Ashwin. Gavaskar not only commended Ashwin's cricketing prowess but also suggested a fitting honour for the seasoned player.

Expressing his admiration, Gavaskar proposed that if India secures victory in the Ranchi Test, Ashwin should lead the team in the fifth Test at Dharamshala. Gavaskar highlighted that such a gesture would be a wonderful acknowledgement of Ashwin's contributions to Indian cricket.

"India wins tomorrow, and you go to Dharamsala. I just hope that Rohit allows you to lead the team out to the field when. That will be a wonderful gesture and a wonderful honour for all that you've done for Indian cricket," Gavaskar said after stumps on Day 3 at Jio Cinema.

“I have no expectations,"  says Ravichandran Ashwin

Responding to Gavaskar's heartwarming suggestion, Ashwin acknowledged that captaining the team is no longer at the forefront of his thoughts. He stated that he is content and fulfilled to play for India, as long as the opportunity persists.

"Sunny bhai, you're being too generous. Thank you so much. I have no expectations of all these things. I think I'm well past all that, but I'm genuinely saying that I'm enjoying every single moment that I am with this team, and the longer it lasts, I will be very happy," responded Ashwin.

As the cricketing fraternity anticipates Ashwin's landmark 100th Test, the spinner's humility and dedication to the game continue to endear him to fans and legends alike. It further solidifies his place in the annals of Indian cricketing history.

List of players to play 100 Tests for India: