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Veteran India spinner R Ashwin on Saturday, March 16 was felicitated by the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA). During the felicitation ceremony, the veteran spoke that he would be forever “indebted” towards former India and current CSK captain MS Dhoni for whatever he has given.
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Recalling his 2008 days from the CSK dressing room, R Ashwin said, “In 2008 I met all the greats (in CSK dressing room) Matthew Hayden and MS Dhoni. I sat through (IPL) 2008. I was a nobody then, where am I to play in a team that had Muttiah Muralitharan.”
“I am indebted to Dhoni for the rest of my life for what he gave me. He gave me an opportunity with the new ball to go head on with Chris Gayle and 17 years later Anil bhai would be talking about the same episode,” he further added, speaking high of MS Dhoni.
It is to be noted that R Ashwin was signed by the Chennai Super Kings in 2008 as local spinner but did not get a chance with the team boasting the likes of Sri Lanka legend Muttiah Muralitharan. However, Dhoni gave the new ball to Ashwin in 2011 IPL final against RCB and the then young off-spinner proved vital for the side, claiming the wicket of Chris Gayle on his fourth delivery.
R Ashwin felicitated with 500 gold coins and INR 1 Cr by TNCA
The Indian veteran spinner R Ashwin was felicitated by the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) for his 100 Test appearances and 500 Test wickets. The 37-year-old, who achieved this rare feat during the India versus England Test series, was awarded with 500 gold coins, a sengol and a special blazer at a special event.
The Indian spinner was also awarded INR 1 Crore for his achievements in Indian cricket. Speaking at the felicitation ceremony, Ashwin said, “I don’t generally search for words to express how I feel. I am truly humbled and grateful to be here.”