IND vs NZ: In praise of Ashwin, coach Rahul Dravid tied the bridge of praise

Terming off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin as a match-winner, Indian cricket team coach Rahul Dravid said that the achievement of becoming the country’s third most successful bowler in Test cricket is very special. Ashwin took his 418th Test wicket by dismissing Tom Latham on the fifth and final day of the first Test against New Zealand, leaving behind Harbhajan Singh. He is now behind Anil Kumble (619) and Kapil Dev (434).

IND vs NZ: After breaking Harbhajan Singh’s record, Ashwin says ‘I don’t feel anything special’

Dravid said in the post-match press conference, “I think it is a phenomenal achievement. You know Harbhajan Singh was a really great bowler with whom I have played a lot of cricket. It is a phenomenal achievement for Ashwin to surpass him in just 80 Test matches.

Harbhajan took 417 wickets in 103 Tests. The Indian coach said, “Ashwin is one of those players who are match-winners for India. Even today you must have felt it on this difficult wicket. The way he brought us back in an 11-over spell on the third day of the match was absolutely phenomenal.

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“The way he kept us in the match even today shows his skill and ability,” he said.

Dravid said the Tamil Nadu off-spinner has improved his game further over the years.

“His bowling is getting better. He is one of those people who keeps on thinking about the game, keeps on changing, keeps on improving. That’s why he got where he is today.”