In a recent revelation, former Indian cricket stalwart Harbhajan Singh has addressed the long-standing rumors about a rift between him and Ravichandran Ashwin. The speculation came to the forefront following Ashwin’s unexpected retirement announcement, which closed the chapter on one of the most illustrious careers in Indian cricket.

Ravichandran Ashwin: A pivotal figure in India’s spin bowling

Ashwin, who recently announced his retirement from international cricket after the Gabba Test against Australia, has been a pivotal figure in India’s spin bowling lineup. His career, spanning over a decade, saw him cross paths with Harbhajan, another legendary spinner known for his aggressive style and significant contributions to Indian cricket. Over the years, comparisons between these two off-spinners have been inevitable, leading to rumors of discord, especially on social media platforms.

Also READ: Ravichandran Ashwin reacts hilariously on a viral so??cial media post after his retirement

Harbhajan Singh addresses the rift rumour with Ashwin

In a candid video posted on his YouTube channel, Harbhajan sought to set the record straight. He began by lauding Ashwin’s achievements, mentioning how exceptional Ashwin was for Team India and he was happy for the Chennai-born cricketer’s achievement. Harbhajan reckoned that if there was any issue between him and Ashwin, he would be the first to clear things but it wasn’t anything like this.

“He has been a phenomenal bowler for India. I am very happy for his achievement. If there is a standoff between me and Ashwin or if there was ever any fight, quarrel or disagreement, I would be the first person to go up to him and ask what the issue is. But it was never like this, and it will never be like this,” said Har??bhajan on his YouTube channel, emphasizing that any speculation about a personal feud was unfounded.

He further clarified that his comments, ?often critiquing the spin-friendly nature of Indian pitches, were misconstrued as criticism direc??ted at Ashwin.

“If people twist things on Twitter and make it seem as if I have a problem with Ashwin, then it’s their point of view. I am a little vocal about the fact that the pitches on which India play cricket are not good tracks,” Harbhajan added.

Also Read: Babar Azam pays tribute to Ravichandran Ashwin following veteran s?pinner’s retirement

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In a historic feat on Friday, February 16, veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin etched his name in cricketing glory by becoming the second Indian bowler and ninth overall to reach 500 wickets in Test cricket. The momentous achievement unfolded during the ongoing third Test in Rajkot against England, as Ashwin dismissed opener Zak Crawley for 15 on Day 2.

Ravichandran Ashwin: Second fastest to 500 Test wickets mark

Not only did Ashwin enter the elite 500-wicket club, but he also claimed the title of the second fastest bowler to achieve this milestone. The Tamil Nadu-born cricketer accomplished this remarkable feat in his 98th Test, spanning 184 innings, positioning him just behind Sri Lanka’s Muttiah Muralitharan (87 matches) in terms of speed.

Also READ: Fastest to 500 Test wickets in terms of balls; Ravic??handran Ashwin at No. 2

Transformation into a spin maestro

Ashwin’s cricketing journey is characterized by versatility, as he initially started his career as a medium pacer. In a revealing interview with the Indian Express, Ashwin’s father shed light on the cricketer’s transition from pace to spin bowling, emphasizing the crucial role played by Ashwin’s mother in this pivotal shift.

‘The biggest turning point in Ashwin’s career was when he switched to bowling off-spin. And I must thank my wife Chitra for that decision. Those days Ashwin had wheezing and he also had an issue with his knee. So to do all the running (as a medium pacer) was proving to be a challenge. It was Chitra who said, ‘Why should you run so much? Just take a few steps and bowl spin,” Ashwin’s father said.

Unforeseen withdrawal from the Rajkot Test

Despite the jubilation surrounding Ashwin’s historic achievement, a somber note emerged as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) released an official statement on Friday night. The statement disclosed Ashwin’s withdrawal from the ongoing Rajkot Test due to a family emergency. Consequently, the 37-year-old spinner will not be participating further in the match, with Devdutt Padikkal stepping in as a substitute fielder.

Also READ: IND vs ENG: What does the MCC rule suggest on po??tential replacement of Ravichandran Ashwin in Rajkot Test?

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