Tamim Iqbal equates Ashwin's contribution to Kohli and Rohit
What's the story
Bangladesh cricket legend Tamim Iqbal has lauded Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin, asserting that his contributions to the Indian cricket team are on par with those of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.
This recognition follows Ashwin's exceptional performance in the first Test against Bangladesh at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
"That was brilliant what he did, he was batting like a proper batter," Iqbal said during an interview on Jio Cinema.
Stellar show
Ashwin's match-winning performance against Bangladesh
Ashwin showcased his all-round skills in the first Test against Bangladesh, scoring a crucial century (113 off 133) in the first innings and taking six wickets for 88 runs in the second.
His efforts helped India recover from a precarious position of 144/6 to post a competitive total of 376.
In the second innings, Ashwin's bowling prowess restricted Bangladesh to just 234, securing a comprehensive victory for India by 280 runs.
Record-breaking feats
Ashwin equals Warne's record, surpasses Walsh
Ashwin's six-wicket haul against Bangladesh marked his 37th fifer in Tests, equating him with legendary Australian spinner Shane Warne for the joint second-highest fifers in Test history.
He also overtook West Indies's fast bowler Courtney Walsh (519 wickets) to become the eighth highest wicket-taker in Test cricket with a total of 522 scalps from 101 matches.
This was the fourth time that Ashwin has scored a century and taken five wickets in a single Test match.
Consistent performer
Ashwin's consistency earns him consecutive POTM awards
Ashwin's consistent performances have not gone unnoticed.
His outstanding show against Bangladesh earned him his second consecutive Player of the Match award at MA Chidambaram Stadium and his 10th overall in Tests.
"I come from a different country. What I always hear is Virat Kohlis and Rohit Sharmas but Ravichandran Ashwin is equally important in my eyes," Iqbal added, further emphasizing Ashwin's significance to the Indian cricket team.