Ravichandran Ashwin and Jonny Bairstow

In the picturesque setting of the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala, Ravichandran Ashwin and Jonny Bairstow found themselves in a historic moment, marking their 100th Test match.

This fifth and final Test of the series between India and England may be a dead rubber in terms of the series outcome, with India already securing a 3-1 lead, but it holds immense significance for the individual journeys of Ashwin and Bairstow.

Ravichandran Ashwin’s prowess and records

Ashwin, a linchpin in the Indian Test side, has accumulated 507 wickets in 99 Tests, along with notable contributions in ODIs and T20Is. His Test statistics boast an impressive average of 23.91, featuring 35 five-wicket hauls and eight 10-wicket hauls. Throughout his career, Ashwin has rewritten records, surpassing legends like Anil Kumble to become India’s leading wicket-taker in home Tests.

Jonny Bairstow’s batting brilliance

Bairstow, donning the English cap for the 100th time, becomes the 17th Englishman to achieve this monumental feat. Prior to the Dharamsala Test, Bairstow has showcased his batting prowess with 5,974 runs at an average of 36.42, including 132 centuries and 26 fifties. As he steps into the centenary Test, Bairstow’s contribution to English cricket is duly celebrated.

Also READ: IND vs ENG: Ravichandran Ashwin receives his 100th Test cap from coach Rahul Dravid and guard of honour from teammates

Cricket fraternity’s wishes and Sachin Tendulkar’s special mention

As Ashwin and Bairstow reach this significant milestone, cricket legends, including the iconic Sachin Tendulkar, extend their heartfelt wishes. Tendulkar, the pioneer in playing the 200 Test matches, conveyed his best wishes through a special congratulatory post on social media.

The cricketing community joined in to celebrate Ashwin and Bairstow’s remarkable achievement.

Dharamsala Test: Changes and England’s decision

In the ongoing Dharamsala Test, the Indian team implemented two changes in their playing XI. Devdutt Padikkal, making his debut, replaced the injured Rajat Patidar, becoming the fifth Indian debutant. Furthermore, pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, rested for the fourth Test in Ranchi, returned to the lineup, taking the place of Akash Deep. The England skipper, Ben Stokes, won the toss and confidently opted to bat first.

Also READ: IND vs ENG: Ravichandran Ashwin, Jonny Bairstow set to achieve a unique feat in their 100th Test

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