Rajkot Test: R Ashwin to join India squad less than 48 hours after withdrawing due to family emergency | Cricket News

India spinner R Ashwin is set to join the India squad on Day for the Rajkot Test after a brief absence due to a family emergency, the BCCI has said in a statement on Sunday.
“The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is pleased to announce the return of R Ashwin to the squad after a brief absence due to a family emergency,” said BCCI.
“Ashwin had to temporarily withdraw from the squad after Day 2 of the 3rd Test in Rajkot to attend to a family emergency.
“Both R Ashwin and the team management are pleased to confirm that he will be back in action on Day 4 and will continue to contribute towards the team’s cause in the ongoing Test match.”
The nature of the emergency is yet to be known but the board stated that any necessary assance to the player and his family will be provided and said it appreciated the fans and media for their empathy.
“The team management, players, media and fans have shown immense understanding and empathy, acknowledging the importance of family as a priority. The team and its supporters have stood united in support of Ashwin during this challenging period, and the management is delighted to welcome him back to the field.
“Ashwin and his family kindly request privacy as they navigate through these challenging times.”
Earlier during the pre-match show, Kuldeep Yadab has hinted that the veteran spinner might rejoin the team.
“I am not sure but I think Ash bhai is someone, who is coming back I guess,” Kuldeep Yadav told Dinesh Karthik in an interview on Jio Cinema.
He also became the second Indian bowler after Anil Kumble to take 500 Test wickets during the third Test against England.
Ashwin also became only the third off-spinner to achieve the feat and continues to be the second highest wicket-taker for India behind Kumble, who ended his career with 619 scalps.