R Ashwin added another feather to his cap on Day 1 of the first Test between India and West Indies in Antigua, as he broke the record for most five-wicket hauls in Test cricket by a fast bowler.
The Indian off-spinner took 5-101 in West Indies’ first innings, his 33rd five-wicket haul in Tests, surpassing the previous record of 32 held by England’s James Anderson. Ashwin also moved into sixth place on the all-time list of bowlers with the most five-wicket hauls, behind Muttiah Muralitharan (67), Shane Warne (61), Anil Kumble (61), Dale Steyn (43), and Ravindra Jadeja (36).
Ashwin’s record-breaking performance was all the more impressive given that he was bowling on a flat pitch in Antigua. He was able to extract turn and bounce from the surface, and he also bowled with great control, conceding just 101 runs in his 34 overs.
Ashwin’s five-wicket haul helped India to bowl West Indies out for 243, and the tourists then went on to build a commanding lead of 252 runs by the end of the day.
In addition to breaking Anderson’s record, Ashwin also became the first Indian bowler to take 700 wickets in international cricket. He reached the milestone when he dismissed West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite for 28.
Ashwin’s achievement is a testament to his longevity and consistency at the highest level. He has been one of the world’s leading bowlers for over a decade, and he shows no signs of slowing down.