Ashwin Surpasses Lyon: A Historic Day in the ICC World Test Championship

In a spectacular performance during the second Test against New Zealand in Pune, Ravichandran Ashwin set a new benchmark by becoming the highest wicket-taker in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC). He started the match just one wicket behind Australian spinner Nathan Lyon, who held the top spot with 187 wickets. However, Ashwin’s brilliant bowling helped him overtake Lyon, ending the day with 189 WTC wickets.

Most wickets in the ICC World Test Championship

Player	WTC wickets
Ravichandran Ashwin	189
Nathan Lyon	187
Pat Cummins	175
Mitchell Starc	147
Stuart Broad	134

Ashwin’s Masterclass: Taking Control Early

Ashwin, who entered the match with 186 WTC wickets, quickly made an impact in his very first over by dismissing New Zealand’s captain Tom Latham for 15 runs. This was the ninth time in his Test career that Ashwin had removed Latham. The off-spinner then proceeded to dismiss Will Young (18) and the in-form Devon Conway (76), taking advantage of two sharp catches by wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant.

With these three crucial wickets, Ashwin not only surpassed Lyon in WTC but also moved past him in the all-time Test wicket-takers list. Ashwin now boasts 531 wickets in 104 Tests, while Lyon has 530 wickets from 129 Tests, making Ashwin the seventh-highest wicket-taker in Test history.

A Tale of Two Spinners: Ashwin and Washington Sundar Dominate

Though Ashwin grabbed the headlines, it was his partner, Washington Sundar, who stole the show with a career-best bowling performance. Sundar, making his Test return after three years, claimed a stunning 7 wickets for 59 runs, wreaking havoc on the New Zealand batting order. Thanks to his efforts, India managed to bowl out New Zealand for a respectable 259 on day one of the Test.

Sundar’s return to Test cricket has been highly anticipated, and his performance not only complemented Ashwin’s but also bolstered India’s chances in the match.

Ashwin’s Consistency and Record in WTC

Ashwin’s rise to the top of the World Test Championship wicket-takers list is a testament to his consistency and skill. Since the WTC began in 2019, Ashwin has played a crucial role in India’s success, excelling in both home and away conditions. His tally of 189 wickets has come in fewer matches compared to his Australian counterpart Lyon, which further highlights his effectiveness.

In addition to being the highest wicket-taker in the WTC, Ashwin’s ability to adapt to various pitches and conditions has solidified his place as one of India’s all-time great spinners.

The Road Ahead: Ashwin and India Eye Series Victory

As the second Test continues, Ashwin and the Indian team will be looking to capitalize on the early breakthroughs provided by their spin duo. With New Zealand all out for 259 and India losing Rohit Sharma for a duck before stumps, the match is poised for an exciting contest on day two.

Ashwin’s recent achievement not only reflects his personal milestones but also adds to India’s bowling strength. With Pat Cummins (175 wickets), Mitchell Starc (147), and Stuart Broad (134) also in the race for the WTC top wicket-takers, Ashwin’s dominance showcases India’s edge in world cricket.

Key Stats and Milestones:

• Ravichandran Ashwin: Highest WTC wicket-taker with 189 wickets.
• Nathan Lyon: Second-highest with 187 wickets.
• Ashwin overtakes Lyon in all-time Test wickets, now ranked 7th.
• Ashwin’s 531 Test wickets have come in 104 Tests, compared to Lyon’s 530 in 129.
• Washington Sundar: Career-best figures of 7/59.