Ravichandran Ashwin withdrew from the third Test late on Friday, hours after reaching the 500-wickets landmark, because of a family medical emergency.
What does that mean?
The Telegraph tries to answer some relevant questions:
What is the issue?
Ashwin’s withdrawal has left India with only 10 players in the playing XI.
Will Ashwin rejoin the squad?
The Indian team management has no confirmation on whether the off spinner will rejoin the team and such a possibility looks bleak.
What do the rules say?
According to the playing conditions of the World Test Championship, each captain shall nominate 11 players plus a maximum of four substitute fielders before the toss. Other than as set out in Clauses 1.2.7 and 1.2.8, no member of the playing XI may be changed after the nomination without the consent of the opposing captain.
Clause 1.2.7 refers to concussion substitutions, while 1.2.8 refers to Covid-19 replacements.
What is likely to happen in practicality?
India are unlikely to appeal for a substitute in the playing XI. However, if India formally appeals to England and Ben Stokes grants approval, there’s a possibility of Ashwin being substituted by Washington Sundar as a like-for-like replacement. It will also need the approval of the Match Referee.
Can Ashwin bowl straightaway if he rejoins the side in Rajkot?
Dinesh Karthik has said during TV commentary that the umpires will allow Ashwin to bowl without a waiting period in Rajkot. As per the rules, a player is supposed to spend as much time on the field as one spends off it (“penalty time”), before being allowed to bowl.
Will it have an impact on the outcome of the Test?
Going by the turn of events, his absence is unlikely to affect India’s chances.
