Cricket: Ashwin Comes To India's Rescue In England Test

RAJKOT, India, , (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Nov, 2016 ) - All-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin struck a crucial half-century before England bowled out India for 488 on the fourth day of the first Test in Rajkot on Saturday.

Ashwin, who came in to bat when the hosts were placed on a shaky 349 for five, made 70 off 139 balls to restrict England's first-innings lead to 49 runs. With only four sessions to go in the Test, the match appeared headed for a draw unless the visitors suffer sudden batting collapse on a wicket that had little to offer to the bowlers.

Adil Rashid took 4-114 to emerge as the most successful bowler while his spin partner Zafar Ansari picked 2-77.

Ashwin shepherded the tail to add 139 runs to the Indian total and frustrate the visitors who posted 537 in their first knock, their third highest total in the country.

Ashwin, who disappointed with the ball during England's innings, completed his seventh Test half-century in the process, underlining once again his key all-round skills. When England last toured India in 2012, Ashwin had proved to be a thorn in their flesh, averaging over 60 with the bat.