Ind vs Eng: Can India replace Ravichandran Ashwin in Rajkot Test? Here’s what the rules say

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cricket, withdrew from the match due to a family emergency, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said on February 16. Earlier in the day, Ashwin became the second Indian bowler after Anil Kumble to claim 500 wickets in Test cricket. "Ravichandran Ashwin has withdrawn from the test squad, effective immediately due to a family medical emergency.

"The BCCI extends its heartfelt support to (Ashwin) and his family. The health and well-being of the players and their loved ones are of utmost importance," the board said in a statement. The BCCI did not provide details of Ashwin’s family emergency.

However, BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla revealed later on that it was Ashwin’s mother who was unwell. "Wishing speedy recovery of mother of @ashwinravi99. He has to rush and leave Rajkot test to Chennai to be with his mother," Shukla posted on X (formerly Twitter).

India will have to continue the match with 10 “active" players because it is not allowed to replace Ashwin with a player who’ll be allowed to bat or bowl. The substitute player will be allowed to field only. That will leave Rohit Sharma with four main bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja.

MCC rules allow a player to be replaced anytime in a match if the opposing captain agrees. But, World Test Championship rules have less clarity on this. As per the rules, a player can only be replaced after the toss and team announcement, but before the game starts.