Ravichandran Ashwin withdraws from 3rd Test against England due to family emergency; Can India use a substitute as bowler?

Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin withdraws from the third Test match against England with immediate effect due to a family emergency.

“Wishing speedy recovery of mother of R Ashwin . He has to rush and leave Rajkot test to Chennai to be with his mother,” said BCCI Vice President, Rajeev Shukla.

BCCI in a statement said, "In these challenging times, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the team fully supports Ashwin."


Meanwhile, according to ICC rules for Tests, a substitute shall not bowl or act as captain but may act as wicket-keeper only with the consent of the umpires. Playing substitutes normally are allowed for players ruled out by Covid-19 or concussion.

The BCCI said, "The BCCI extends its heartfelt support to the champion cricketer and his family. The health and well-being of the players and their loved ones are of utmost importance. The Board requests respect for the privacy of Ashwin and his family as they navigate through this challenging time."

"The Board and the team will continue to provide any necessary assistance to Ashwin and will keep the lines of communication open to offer support as needed. Team India appreciates the understanding and empathy of the fans and media during this sensitive period," the statement read.

Ashwin celebrated his 500th wicket in Test cricket on Day 2 with the wicket of Zak Crawley. He became the ninth bowler in Test history to surpass the 500-wicket milestone and is the only Indian bowler to achieve this feat after Anil Kumble.