Ashwin finishes 2015 as top-ranked Test bowler

With 871 ranking points, the Indian off-spinner leads Dale Steyn (867) by four points on the bowlers’ list.

Ashwin bagged 62 wickets in nine Test matches in the year with seven five-wicket hauls and the best figures of 7 for 66. He was instrumental in India’s most recent Test series wins over Sri Lanka and South Africa with 21 and 31 wickets respectively. He walked away with the Man of the Series awards on both occasions.

Ashwin also scored 248 Test runs at 20.66 during the year with three half-centuries. His rank on the ODI and T20I bowlers’ rankings is 10th and fifth respectively.

Congratulating Team India and their performers, the BCCI President, Shashank Manohar said, “It gives me immense joy to see the tremendous growth and progress the Indian team made over the course of 2015. The twin series victories, over Sri Lanka and South Africa, saw Ashwin’s rise as a match-winner, and were the perfect way to end what was an eventful cricketing year for the team. I congratulate Ashwin on his achievements.”

Acknowledging the fine achievements of R Ashwin, BCCI Secretary, Anurag Thakur said, “It is a testimony to Ashwin’s incredible skills and form that he has become the first Indian bowler to lead the ICC’s Test Rankings since 1973. He has played a key role in taking India to the No. 2 position on the Test Rankings and I wish him all the best for the coming year.”

Team India is at the No. 2 position on the ICC Test and ODI Rankings.