India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has pulled out of the third Test against England in Rajkot because of a family emergency.
On Friday’s second day, the 37-year-old became only the ninth man to reach 500 Test wickets.
“The health and wellbeing of the players and their loved ones are of utmost importance,” said the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
“The BCCI extends heartfelt support to the champion cricketer and his family.”
Rajiv Shukla, vice-president of the BCCI, wrote on X (formerly Twitter) that Ashwin had to “rush and leave Rajkot Test to Chennai to be with his mother”.
After two days, England are 207-2 in their first innings, 238 behind India’s 445.
On Friday, Ashwin made 37 with the bat, then had England opener Zak Crawley caught off a top-edged sweep to reach the milestone of 500 wickets.
He is the second Indian to achieve the landmark and fifth spin bowler.
Ashwin was also the batter in question when India were penalised five penalty runs for running on the pitch.
If he does not return to the Test, India will not be allowed to replace his batting or bowling, but will be permitted a substitute fielder.
“In these challenging times, the BCCI and the team fully supports Ashwin,” said the BCCI statement.
“The board and the team will continue to provide any necessary assistance to Ashwin and will keep the lines of communication open to offer support as needed. Team India appreciates the understanding and empathy of the fans and media during this sensitive period.”
The five-match series is currently level at 1-1.
India are already without star batter Virat Kohli, after he withdrew from the series for personal reasons.
