New Delhi, November 27: Former off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has come to the defense of Indian team head coach Gautam Gambhir, who is facing severe criticism following a 0-2 defeat in the home Test series against South Africa. Ashwin stated that demanding the coach's removal is unjustified, especially at a time when the players themselves have not shouldered adequate responsibility for the performance.

India suffered a record 408-run defeat in the second Test match that concluded in Guwahati on Tuesday. The criticism against Gambhir has largely centered on the strategy of including a high number of all-rounders in the squad, which critics argue has disrupted the team's balance. However, Ashwin supported the former opening batsman, emphasizing that he should not be removed from his position, noting that Gambhir's tenure is scheduled to last until 2027, as per agency report.

Speaking on his YouTube program, Ashwin questioned the rationale behind the outcry, reminding viewers that sport involves ups and downs. He highlighted that managing a team is a complex task and the coaching staff is equally disappointed with the results. He urged for understanding, suggesting that while firing someone might seem like an appealing solution to some, it is not the correct approach. He clarified that his stance was not about blind support or personal relationships, stating that while mistakes can be identified, they can happen to anyone and sometimes prove costly.

Having retired from international cricket and the IPL, the former spinner acknowledged the need for accountability given India's strong home record in the past. However, he argued that targeting the coach alone while sparing the players from scrutiny is unfair. He pointed out that there are high stakes and significant financial aspects involved in Indian cricket, making the coaching position highly coveted, but ultimately, a coach cannot go out and bat in place of the players.

Ashwin challenged the critics to step into the coach's shoes, noting that while players require consistency, the primary responsibility for performance lies with them. He observed that he had not seen enough players taking the kind of responsibility that would justify blaming the coach entirely for the issues. While acknowledging that decision-making processes can always be improved, he expressed his dislike for personally targeting individuals simply to find a scapegoat for the team's failure.

New Delhi, August 27 – Veteran Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has officially retired from the Indian Premier League, bringing an end to his long and illustrious run in the tournament. The 37-year-old off-spinner made the announcement on social media, expressing gratitude to all franchises, the IPL, and the BCCI for years of unforgettable memories and partnerships. He added that while his IPL journey had concluded, new opportunities in other cricket leagues around the world could soon begin.

Ashwin was part of Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2025, a season that proved highly disappointing for the team. With his exit, speculations are rising that CSK could undergo major changes before the next season. Though stepping away from the IPL, Ashwin is expected to participate in overseas T20 leagues, something now possible after his complete retirement from Indian domestic and international cricket. As per agency report, BCCI does not permit active Indian cricketers to play in foreign leagues, but retired players are free to do so.

Ashwin’s IPL career, spanning from 2008 to 2025, was as decorated as his international one. He represented Chennai Super Kings, Rising Pune Supergiants, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals, even captaining Punjab Kings for a period. In 220 IPL matches, he scored 833 runs and claimed 187 wickets, making him the fifth most successful bowler in IPL history.

His international cricketing journey ended in December 2024, but not before cementing his legacy as one of the finest off-spinners the game has ever seen. Between 2010 and 2024, Ashwin played 106 Tests, taking 537 wickets and scoring 3,503 runs with six centuries and 14 fifties. In ODIs, he picked up 156 wickets in 116 games, while in T20Is, he had 72 wickets in 65 matches.

Ashwin’s ability to contribute both with the ball and bat made him a vital asset across formats. His legacy in Indian cricket, especially as a match-winning Test bowler and a dependable lower-order batsman, will remain etched in the game’s history. His move away from IPL marks the end of an era, but fans may soon see him taking on new challenges in global T20 circuits.

New Delhi, February 9 – Indian spin legend Ravichandran Ashwin has identified India and New Zealand as the strongest contenders for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, while also cautioning against writing off Australia, despite their key players being sidelined due to injuries. The tournament is set to commence on February 19 in Pakistan, but India will play all its matches in Dubai under the hybrid model.

Ashwin, speaking on his YouTube channel, highlighted that India will benefit from playing in conditions similar to home. He stated that teams facing India will feel like they are playing in subcontinental conditions, which could pose a significant challenge for the opposition.

The off-spinner also questioned India's preparation for the prestigious tournament, emphasizing that a tri-series involving multiple teams would have been a better build-up compared to a bilateral series against England. He pointed out that Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa have been playing in similar conditions, which could work in their favor during the Champions Trophy. He also recalled India's struggles in the T20 World Cup held in Dubai, stressing that the toss factor could play a crucial role in determining match outcomes.

Regarding New Zealand, Ashwin acknowledged the absence of key pacers Trent Boult and Tim Southee but insisted that the Kiwis remain a formidable side. He posed questions about their bowling attack, wondering who would accompany Matt Henry in the pace department. He also noted the emergence of Will O’Rourke and Ben Sears, who could step up as future stars. With Michael Bracewell and Glenn Phillips in the spin attack, Ashwin believes that captain Mitchell Santner’s leadership and resource utilization will be key to New Zealand’s performance.

While praising New Zealand, Ashwin also stressed that Australia remains a dominant force in ICC events, even though injuries have plagued their squad. With Steve Smith taking over the captaincy, Ashwin questioned whether Smith, Travis Head, Glenn Maxwell, and Marnus Labuschagne could lead the team to the semi-finals. He reaffirmed that Australia always finds a way to peak in major tournaments, making them a side that should never be underestimated.

However, Australia’s bowling lineup faces major concerns as regular captain Pat Cummins and key pacer Josh Hazlewood have been ruled out due to injuries. Additionally, Mitchell Marsh withdrew from the tournament on January 31 due to a back injury, while Marcus Stoinis has announced his retirement from ODI cricket. Given these setbacks, Ashwin emphasized that Australia's success could hinge on Smith’s leadership and batting form.

Chennai, December 21 – Ravichandran Ashwin’s sudden retirement from international cricket left fans and the cricketing world stunned. Following his announcement after the third Test against Australia in Brisbane, his wife Prithi Narayanan shared a heartfelt post on Instagram, reflecting on their journey together and urging him to embrace life beyond cricket.

‘A Fan’s Love Letter’

Prithi’s post, titled "A Fan’s Love Letter", encapsulated her admiration and pride for Ashwin’s illustrious career, which saw him take 537 Test wickets since his debut against the West Indies in 2011.

“From not knowing how to pack a kit bag together to following you around the world, cheering for you, watching you, and learning from you—it has been an absolute joy,” Prithi wrote. “You introduced me to a world that allowed me to love a game closely, a privilege I hold dearly.”

Reflections on Dedication and Perseverance

Prithi highlighted the passion, discipline, and effort Ashwin put into his craft. She noted that reaching greatness required immense dedication, often beyond what others deemed sufficient.

“You had to do it all and more to remain relevant as R. Ashwin in the system. It wasn’t just about awards, incredible statistics, or Player of the Match trophies; it was about your relentless drive to improve.”

A Message of Reassurance

Prithi expressed her pride in Ashwin’s accomplishments and offered words of encouragement as he transitions into a new phase of life. “As you bid farewell to your international career, know that all is well. It’s time to let go of the weight of being Ashwin and embrace life on your own terms.”

She urged him to enjoy the simple joys of life—spending time with family, indulging in new experiences, and cherishing the freedom to live without the constraints of professional cricket. “Spend time with the kids, share memes, hunt for a new ball, and just do nothing all day.”

Memories of Triumphs and Challenges

Prithi reminisced about the pivotal moments of Ashwin’s 14-year career—victories, personal accolades, and tough losses. She recounted emotional milestones like India’s win at the MCG, the Sydney Test draw, and triumph at the Gabba, as well as quieter, introspective moments spent together after challenging matches.

“When I watched your press conference, memories of the last 13–14 years came rushing back—the big wins, the heartbreaks, and everything in between,” she wrote.

An End of an Era

Ashwin’s retirement marked the conclusion of a distinguished international career. While he will continue playing in domestic leagues like the IPL, his absence from the international stage has left an indelible mark on fans and teammates alike.

Prithi’s tribute serves as a reminder of the sacrifices and resilience behind the success of one of India’s greatest cricketers, offering a deeply personal glimpse into the man beyond the stats and accolades.

Chennai, December 19 – Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who recently announced his retirement from international cricket during the ongoing Test series against Australia, returned to Chennai on Thursday to a grand reception. Ashwin, visibly content with his decision, expressed no regret over his retirement and looked forward to exploring new avenues.

Warm Reception at Chennai Airport

The 38-year-old cricketer, who has taken 765 international wickets across formats, was greeted with flowers, cheers, and music at the Chennai International Airport. Tamil Nadu Cricket Association officials escorted him out of the airport, where his wife, Prithi, and their two daughters awaited him.

After arriving home, Ashwin sought blessings from his parents and briefly interacted with journalists. Speaking about his retirement, he said, “For many, it might be emotional and difficult to digest, but for me, it is a moment of relief and satisfaction. I had been considering this for some time, and on the fourth day of the Brisbane Test, I knew it was time to make the announcement.”

No Regrets About Career Decisions

When asked if he regretted not captaining the national team, Ashwin dismissed the notion. “I don’t have even an ounce of regret. Life is about moving forward, and I’ve never looked back with disappointment,” he affirmed.

Ashwin reflected on his career highs and lows, stating, “Typically, I would go to bed thinking about my performances, like taking wickets or scoring runs. But over the past two years, those thoughts stopped. That was a clear sign for me to take a different path.”

Future Plans

Ashwin clarified that while he will no longer play international cricket, he plans to continue in domestic leagues, including the Indian Premier League (IPL). “I’ll be representing Chennai Super Kings in the upcoming IPL season,” he confirmed.

He also mentioned a desire to take some time off before setting new goals. “I haven’t decided on my next steps yet. For now, I just want to rest and adapt to this new phase of life.”

Achievements and Legacy

Ashwin ends his illustrious international career as one of India’s most successful bowlers. In 106 Tests, he claimed 537 wickets, making him the second-highest wicket-taker for India in the format, after Anil Kumble (619). Ashwin also took 156 wickets in 113 ODIs and 72 wickets in 65 T20Is.

Making his debut in 2010 in ODIs, Ashwin transitioned to Tests the following year and quickly became a key player for India. Known for his sharp cricketing mind and exceptional skills, he played a vital role in several of India’s victories across formats.

A Hero’s Farewell

As Ashwin returned home, fans and well-wishers celebrated his remarkable career, highlighting his contributions to Indian cricket. Ashwin, visibly touched, said, “I didn’t expect such a warm welcome. This reminds me of the 2011 World Cup celebrations. It’s been a journey full of ups and downs, but I feel fulfilled.”

Ashwin’s departure marks the end of an era for Indian cricket, but his legacy as a master of spin and a true cricketing intellect will continue to inspire generations.

Brisbane, December 18 – Indian veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin surprised the cricketing world on Wednesday by announcing his immediate retirement from international cricket during the ongoing Test series against Australia. Ashwin, who has taken 537 Test wickets for India—second only to Anil Kumble (619 wickets)—will continue to play club cricket.

Ashwin made the announcement during a joint press conference with Indian captain Rohit Sharma after the third Test in Brisbane ended in a draw.

Ashwin’s Emotional Farewell

Speaking briefly, Ashwin said, "I won’t take much of your time. Today marks my last day as a cricketer for the Indian team."

Following this announcement, Ashwin declined to answer any questions and left the conference room.

A Stellar Career

The 38-year-old bowler had recently participated in the pink-ball Test in Adelaide, taking one wicket. Known for his skill and innovation, Ashwin has been a pivotal part of India’s bowling attack, contributing significantly across formats over the years.

Reactions from the Team

After Ashwin’s exit from the press conference, skipper Rohit Sharma expressed his support, stating, "He is very sure about his decision, and we must respect his wishes."

Ashwin was also seen sharing an emotional moment with Virat Kohli in the dressing room prior to the announcement.

BCCI’s Tribute

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) acknowledged Ashwin’s contributions to Indian cricket by posting on X (formerly Twitter): "Ashwin has been the epitome of finesse, skill, talent, and innovation."

Ashwin’s unexpected decision marks the end of an illustrious career, leaving fans and cricket experts reflecting on the legacy of one of India’s finest spinners.

New Delhi, September 24: Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin recently shared a lighthearted conversation he had with skipper Rohit Sharma during the Chennai Test against Bangladesh. Ashwin, who played a pivotal role in India’s 280-run win on September 22, once again showcased his exceptional talent with both bat and ball.

At 38 years old, Ashwin continues to earn praise for his consistency and match-winning performances, even as Indian cricket increasingly focuses on younger players.

In a recent video on his YouTube channel, Ashwin recounted a humorous anecdote about how his wife, Preethi Narayanan, brought up the topic of age while watching highlights from the Duleep Trophy. This led Ashwin to have a playful conversation with Rohit about growing older. Both senior members of the Indian team have shrugged off any concerns about their age and continue to perform at crucial moments for the team.

Ashwin shared, "We were watching some highlights the other day, and my wife said something funny: 'These off-spinners bowling at you must be cursing you in their heads.' I was surprised and asked why. She said they might be thinking, ‘When will this guy leave and give us a break?’ Suddenly, I felt a bit strange, realizing that I’m at that stage now. When we were younger, we used to think about securing our place in the team. Now, looking back, it makes me realize how long I’ve been playing."

He continued, "I saw a graphic on the official broadcast channel showing players' ages, and it ended at 38. I was the only one in that category. Then I saw Rohit passing by, so I asked, 'When’s your birthday?' He told me it’s coming soon. I’m looking forward to it because we’ll be the same age for a little while!"

During the Chennai Test, Ashwin not only scored his sixth Test century but also took six wickets, earning him the Player of the Match award. This marked his second consecutive Player of the Match accolade in Chennai, following a similar achievement in 2021.

Remarkably, Ashwin is now second only to Ian Botham in the feat of scoring a century and taking five wickets in a single Test match, having done so four times. His prowess in the fourth innings of matches has solidified his status as one of India's finest bowlers, recently surpassing Anil Kumble’s record with 99 wickets in the fourth innings, compared to Kumble's 94.

Ashwin’s contribution was key in helping India take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series against Bangladesh, further cementing his indispensable role in India’s bowling attack.

Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has returned to the pinnacle of Test bowling rankings after a stellar performance in his 100th Test match. Ashwin's nine-wicket haul against England in Dharamsala propelled him to the top spot for the sixth time in his career, displacing teammate Jasprit Bumrah.

This achievement marks another milestone for the experienced spinner, who first reached the number one ranking in December 2015. Ashwin's impressive bowling display helped India clinch the ICC World Test Championship series with a convincing 4-1 victory.

The rankings update also saw movement for several other Indian players. Young batsman Shubman Gill climbed 11 places to a career-best 20th position, while Player of the Series Yashasvi Jaiswal's half-century propelled him two spots to eighth. Jaiswal's remarkable form has him in elite company - after nine Tests, his rating points place him behind only legendary Australians Don Bradman and Mike Hussey at the same stage in their careers.

The rankings shake-up extended beyond India. Australia's series win over New Zealand saw them move to second in the WTC table, with wicket-keeper batsman Alex Carey experiencing a significant jump in the batting rankings (50th to 38th). New Zealand's Matt Henry also enjoyed a rise, his impressive bowling figures propelling him into the top 12 bowlers for the first time.

Movement was evident in the ODI and T20 rankings as well. Ireland's Harry Tector and Afghanistan's Rahmanullah Gurbaz both climbed the batting ranks after strong performances in their respective series. The T20 rankings saw movement for UAE's Muhammad Wasim and Junaid Siddiqui after their victory over Scotland.

Rajkot, Feb 16 (IANS) Veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has become just the second Indian bowler and ninth overall to pick 500 wickets in Test cricket. Ashwin achieved the milestone during the ongoing third Test match against England at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot on Friday.

The off-spinner was on 499 scalps at the end of the second Test in Visakhapatnam and completed his 500th scalp with the wicket of Zak Crawley, who top edged a sweep to short fine leg, ending an 89-run opening partnership, on day two of the third Test. Ashwin was then swarmed by his team-mates to congratulate him on achieving the monumental feat.

"From Chennai to the cricketing cosmos, @ashwinravi99's journey to 500 Test wickets is a saga of grit, guile, and unrivaled skill. A monumental achievement that cements his legacy in the annals of cricketing history. Bravo, Ashwin!” wrote veteran India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik on ‘X’.

Ashwin is the ninth bowler in Test history to breach the 500-wicket barrier, and the only one from India since the legendary leg-spinner Anil Kumble, who took 619 wickets in 132 Tests. Muttiah Muralitharan (800), Shane Warne (708), James Anderson (695), Anil Kumble (619), Stuart Broad (604), Glenn McGrath (563), Courtney Walsh (519) and Nathan Lyon (517) are ahead of him in the list of highest wicket-takers in Test history.

"500 Test wickets for a one-in-a-million bowler! In AshWIN the SpinNER, there was always a WINNER. 500 wickets is a huge milestone in Test cricket. Congratulations, Champion!” wrote legendary India batter Sachin Tendulkar on 'X'.

Ashwin achieved the 500 wickets feat in 98 Test matches, making him the second-quickest in Test history to the milestone after Muralitharan, Sri Lanka’s legendary off-spinner, who did so in 87 Tests. Each of the other seven bowlers took more than 100 Test matches to get to the milestone.

Ashwin, who made his Test debut against the West Indies at New Delhi in November 2011, has been India’s strike bowler in Tests, particularly at home, where 347 of his 500 wickets have come.

On the eve of the Test, teammate Ravindra Jadeja had cheekily commented that it was Ashwin's ‘destiny’ to complete the milestone at the all-rounder’s home ground in Rajkot. "I am very happy for him, I have been playing with him for years. I thought he would get it in the first test match, but it's okay, it is destiny that he will get it here in my hometown."

Ashwin has 34 five-wicket hauls and eight 10-wicket match hauls in his Test career. James Anderson, Lyon and Ashwin are the only active bowlers to have more than 400 wickets in Test cricket. From Ashwin’s 500 wickets, 277 have been caught, including 12 of them being caught and bowled dismissals, followed by 110 lbws, 100 bowled, and 13 stumped scalps.

Rajkot, Feb 16 (IANS) India have been hit with a five-run penalty after all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin ran on the protected area of the pitch during the first session of the second day of the third Test against England on Friday.

In the 102nd over of the India innings when India were 358 for 7, Ashwin pushed the ball into the covers region and attempted to take a run by running down the pitch, before being sent back by Dhruv Jurel. This led to on-field umpire Joel Wilson fining India with a five-run penalty, who had a word with Ashwin, before signalling a penalty.

As a result, England will begin their first innings from 5/0.

India had already received their first and final warning when all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja had been warned for running on the pitch on the first day of the Test.

Law 41.14 that deals with the situation of a batter damaging the pitch and Law states: "It is unfair to cause deliberate or avoidable damage to the pitch. If the striker enters the protected area in playing or playing at the ball, he/she must move from it immediately thereafter. A batter will be deemed to be causing avoidable damage if either umpire considers that his/her presence on the pitch is without reasonable cause."

Law 41.14.2 describes the procedure to be followed in the first such occurrence, which is a warning to the batting side.

"If either batter causes deliberate or avoidable damage to the pitch, other than as in 41.15, at the first instance the umpire seeing the contravention shall, when the ball is dead, inform the other umpire of the occurrence. The bowler's end umpire shall then warn both batters that the practice is unfair and indicate that this is a first and final warning. This warning shall apply throughout the innings. The umpire shall so inform each incoming batter. inform the captain of the fielding side and, as soon as practicable, the captain of the batting side of what has occurred."

The penalty is prescribed in Law 41.14.3, which states: "If there is any further instance of deliberate or avoidable damage to the pitch by any batter in that innings, the umpire seeing the contravention shall, when the ball is dead, inform the other umpire of the occurrence.

"The bowler's end umpire shall disallow all runs to the batting side return any not out batter to his/her original end signal No ball or Wide to the scorers if applicable. award 5 Penalty runs to the fielding side."

By the time of writing the report, India are currently in a strong position in the Rajkot Test with a 415/9 on the board.

The five-Test series is tied at 1-1 after England won the first match in Hyderabad and India drew level in Visakhapatnam.

New Delhi, Feb 11 (IANS) Veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin lavished rich praise on fast-bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah for being the ‘real show stealer’ for his sensational match haul of nine wickets in the 106-run win over England in the second Test at Visakhapatnam.

Bumrah’s nine-wicket match haul, which included a brilliant 6/45 in the first innings at Visakhapatnam, helped India beat England by 106 runs to level the five-game series at 1-1, with the next match to begin at Rajkot on February 15.

Days after being given Player of the Match award and becoming the fastest Indian bowler to reach 150 wickets in the format, Bumrah became the first fast-bowler from the country to be at top of the ICC Men’s Test Bowling Rankings.

"The real show stealer is BoomBall. We saw a little of Jaisball also. Jasprit Bumrah has bowled extraordinarily. He is the leading wicket-taker with 14 wickets and also the No.1 ranked Test bowler. I am a huge fan of his and this is a Himalayan feat," said Ashwin on his YouTube channel.

He also praised young batters Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill, who scored 209 and 104 respectively in the Visakhapatnam Test. "Yashasvi Jaiswal has shown enormous growth. He scored a double-century. In fact, he came down and hit James Anderson towards the extra covers and got out after a double century. There's no doubt about the amount of talent that Shubman Gill has. But the hundred justified just the kind of armor he had as a batter."

Ashwin, who is one wicket from reaching the remarkable feat of 500 scalps in the format, further stated why the hosts’ don't have any real home advantage. "There’s never been a marquee Test series like this in five such venues before. In 2017, we played Tests against Australia in Ranchi and Dharamshala.

"However, in that series, the other venues were Pune and Bangalore. Usually, if there are 4-5 match Test series, at least one or two happen in metro cities. Unlike that, this time, it’s happening in venues that weren’t a part of the World Cup matches. For most Indian players themselves, these venues are new," he said.

"There are a lot of players playing in our own team who have not played a test match or a first-class in the Dr. Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy Cricket Stadium. I am not sure if this is possible in any other country. In India, it is possible because there are so many Test venues here.

"If you take the case of England, in this Test series, Tom Hartley made his debut. If Tom Hartley and Rehan Ahmed are playing a Test match in England, they can never say I’ve not played in Lancashire ground or Worcestershire ground. In fact, the matches never happen in Worcestershire.

"They cannot say that they have never played in Surrey Oval because they would have played. Not just the county matches, but even the Test matches there happen in these venues. But in India, because there are so many venues, even for Indian players it’s the first time they are playing a test or even a first-class match in these venues.

"So the home familiarity has gone missing in these cases. Of course, they would have played IPL, T20 or ODI matches here and there. But in playing red ball in a longer format, the familiarity really makes a difference," Ashwin concluded.

New Delhi, Aug 27 (IANS) Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin released a long statement, expressing his thoughts on the 'mankading' controversy, and said If anyone run-outs Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma or any big player in the Knockout stage of the game, the hell will break out in that situation.

Here is what Ashwin wrote on X, previously Twitter: “This is a fair assessment of the situation. Imagine someone running out Kohli, Rohit, Smith, Root, or any crucial batter at the nonstrikers in the World Cup semi-final or a crunch game that will decide qualification.

"I am sure hell will break loose and there will be a character assassination campaign by some experts who still don’t agree with it and of course, fans that are on the receiving end.”

Further, he wrote, “At the moment not all teams are doing it but come the World Cup, I really hope everyone is ready for it cos taking a moral high stand and saying we won’t do it, should open a strategic window for the other teams and genuinely teams should take every single advantage coming their way because winning a World Cup is a lifetime achievement.”

He also wrote a solution to the problem stating that, “There is only one solution, whoever be the batter and whatever be the magnitude of the situation, the batter needs to watch the bowler load the ball up and rotate his shoulder before taking off and if he doesn’t do that and gets out, we should applaud the bowler and tell the batsmen that he can do better.”

Ashwin himself came into controversy when he mankaded Jos Buttler in IPL season 2019, after that many other players did the same and the controversy grew further. The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) has clarified on several occasions and has also amended the law multiple times.

Recently Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan got out in a similar manner in the crucial juncture of the game when Afghanistan pace bowler Fazalhaq Farooqi mankaded him.

However, Pakistan won the match on the second last ball, but the talk around mankading started again.