Wed Oct 16 08:01:17 UTC 2024: ## Ashwin Eyes Record-Breaking Performance Against New Zealand

India’s veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is set to lead the spin attack against New Zealand in the upcoming three-Test series, starting on October 16th. Ashwin, with a staggering 520+ Test wickets, has a formidable record against the Kiwis, making him a key player to watch.

Ashwin’s dominance against New Zealand is evident in his remarkable Test statistics. He boasts 66 wickets in just nine Tests at an astounding average of 15.43, a figure unmatched against any other team he has played at least two Tests against. This average also places him at the top among bowlers with 50+ Test wickets against the Black Caps, surpassing even South African legend Dale Steyn (16.04).

The 37-year-old has achieved six five-wicket hauls in his nine Tests against New Zealand, a feat shared only by Ian Botham, Derek Underwood, Wasim Akram, and Dale Steyn. He also shares the record for most 10-wicket match hauls against New Zealand (3) with Derek Underwood. Notably, all of Ashwin’s six five-wicket hauls against New Zealand have come on home soil, a record he shares with Steyn.

Ashwin’s success against New Zealand extends beyond individual performances. He holds the third and fourth-best match returns against the Kiwis in Test cricket, with impressive figures of 13/140 and 12/85 in the 2016 Indore and 2012 Hyderabad Tests, respectively. Furthermore, he and Steyn share the record for most Test wickets against New Zealand at home (59 each), with Ashwin averaging a stellar 14.83 in such matches.

With his impressive stats and proven dominance against the New Zealand team, all eyes will be on Ravichandran Ashwin as he aims to further cement his place as one of the greatest spin bowlers in the history of Test cricket.

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