Ravi Shastri delivers an unfiltered classic ‘Keep harassing the batters’ for R Ashwin; addresses Spinner’s potential retirement | Cricket

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri praised the veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin as he played his 100th Test match in Dharamshala recently. Ashwin has claimed over 500 wickets and is currently ranked as the number 1 Test bowler. He finished the recently concluded five-match series as the leading wicket-taker with 26 scalps in his kitty.

In his historical test, Ashwin took five wickets in the second innings to help India secure a 4–1 series victory over England.

Recently, the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) organized a felicitation function to celebrate Ashwin crossing the 500-wicket mark and completing 100 Test runs.

Former coach Shastri was present at the event as he praised the veteran spinner and urged him to continue troubling the batters for at least two more years.

“Achievements of gigantic proportions. This is no joke. I wish you all the best. I believe you still have a lot of cricket left. Spinners mature with each passing age. Feel very proud. Well done, enjoy it and continue to harass the batsmen for at least a few more years,” Shastri said at the event.

India’s current head coach Rahul Dravid also praised his senior spinner and hailed him for inspiring an entire generation of young spinners.

“I hope he’s not done. He advanced the craft of spin bowling through his hard work, dedication and innovation. It’s a great legacy to have. Fantastic! Well done and inspired an entire generation of young spinners,” Dravid said.

“He always has the desire to contribute to the success of the team. I really enjoyed the time spent with him,” added ‘The Wall’.

Meanwhile, Ashwin’s spin partner Ravindra Jadeja and skipper Rohit Sharma also shared a virtual message for him and expected the champion bowler to create more memories.

“Your contribution to the Indian team has been invaluable. I look forward to hearing more,” Jadeja said in a virtual message.

“We played a lot of cricket together and with so many memories. What stands out about you is the way you developed. It was wonderful to play alongside you. Congratulations to you and your family. I wish you the best for the future.”, Rohit praised his deadly weapon.