India all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin delivered another masterful performance at his home ground, MA Chidambaram Stadium, during the first Test against Bangladesh. Ashwin’s contribution with both bat and ball played a pivotal role in India’s dominant 280-run victory. His remarkable display saw him score his sixth Test century and claim his 37th five-wicket haul, equaling the legendary Shane Warne’s tally.

Ashwin’s all-around excellence earned him his tenth Player of the Match award in Test cricket. Following the match, when quizzed about whether this Test at Chepauk was his “swansong” at the iconic venue, the 38-year-old responded with his characteristic sense of humor and humility.

“I don’t know what is a Chepauk swansong? Every time you walk onto the park it’s a swansong. Maybe, maybe not, who knows? Like I said, every day, every Test match I’m playing is a big thing. Not only for me, you can ask any cricketer, to go through a Test match or a Test series is a grind, and you never nearly know what’s next when it comes to Test matches,” Ashwin said in the post-match press conference.

Reflecting on his future in cricket, Ashwin remained grounded and philosophical. “Because you put in that effort, everything, and then you need to be lucky enough to get those performances, also work hard and simultaneously manage your ups and downs. These are all huge challenges for any Test cricketer. I haven’t thought that far ahead, but if that was a swansong, what a swansong! A good one,” he added.