During the first Test between India and New Zealand, R Ashwin had his historical moment. With 419 wickets, the off-spinner has surpassed bowling icon Harbhajan Singh to take 3rd spot on the list of Indian bowlers with the most Test wickets. Here is why Rahul Dravid Salutes R Ashwin.

Rahul Dravid Salutes R Ashwin

However, the Indian cricket side’s head coach, Rahul Dravid, has lavished praise on Ashwin. Dravid described Harbhajan as a “fine bowler,” but he called Ashwin’s accomplishment “phenomenal.”

“Harbhajan was a really fine bowler, someone I’ve played a lot of cricket with. He was a terrific bowler for India and what Ashwin’s done to be able to go past in just 80 Test matches is a phenomenal achievement,” said Dravid after the match.

It’s Phenomenal And Really Happy For What Ashwin Achieved: Rahul Dravid

Rahul Dravid also stated that Ashwin has become a match-winner for the Indian team and that he helped the Ajinkya Rahane-led team on Day 5. Highlighting that Ashwin is still progressing more as a bowler, the Indian Head Coach stated that one does not attain the same kind of performance that Ashwin possesses unless he continues to improve.

“Ashwin has been an absolute match-winner for India, even today you saw on this difficult wicket the way he pulled us back into the game (and also) on that third morning with that spell of 11 overs. And today just to keep us alive in the game is a tribute to his skill and ability”.

“I think he’s just evolved, he keeps growing. He’s one of those guys who keeps thinking about the game, keeps changing, keeps evolving. That’s why he’s got where he has. You don’t achieve what Ashwin has achieved without growing and improving and evolving,” said Dravid.

Dravid further stated that this has been a privilege collaborating with Ashwin and that he is really pleased with Ashwin’s brilliant performance with the red ball.

“It’s a pleasure to have someone like him in the dressing room and to work with him. It’s phenomenal and really happy for what he’s achieved,” concluded Rahul Dravid.

Also read: IND Vs NZ: Ravindra, Ajaz Help NZ Secure A Draw In Kanpur