Ashwin withdraws from third Test: India to play with 10 players against England? What are the ICC rules

Ravichandran Ashwin has pulled out of the ongoing third Test between India and England effective immediately due to a family medical emergency. Ashwin was forced to withdraw from India Test squad on the same day he completed the massive feat of 500 Test wickets. The BCCI in its statement has asked the stakeholders to respect Ashwin’s privacy and added that “health and well-being of the players and their loved ones are of utmost importance.”

The absence of the star off-spinner has left India with just 10 players in the Rajkot Test. Currently after two days of play, England are 207/2 and trail India by 238 runs. The home team scored 445 in their first innings.

The series is currently levelled 1-1 and India will have to make use of just 10 players to win the third Test as ICC rules only allow a substitute player to field and do wicket-keeping. A substitute player cannot bat or bowl.

The law 24.1 of MCC and its sub sections over substitute fielders states: “The umpires shall allow a substitute fielder if they are satisfied that a fielder has been injured or become ill and that this occurred during the match, or for any other wholly acceptable reason. In all other circumstances, a substitute is not allowed.”

“A substitute shall not bowl or act as captain but may act as wicket-keeper only with the consent of the umpires. Note, however, Law 42.7.1 (Additional points relating to Level 3 and Level 4 offences). A nominated player may bowl or field even though a substitute has previously acted for him/her, subject to 24.2, 24.3 and Law 42.4 (Level 3 offences and action by umpires).”

As per the ICC laws, a substitute player can only bat or bowl if the original player who will be missing action has been ruled out due to concussion or COVID-19.

BCCI statement on Ashwin

“The BCCI extends its heartfelt support to the champion cricketer and his family. The health and well-being of the players and their loved ones are of utmost importance. The Board requests respect for the privacy of Ashwin and his family as they navigate through this challenging time,” the statement read.

“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.”