Ravichandran Ashwin, born on September 17, 1986, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, is a name that resonates with cricketing excellence. Known for his wizardry as an off-spinner and his all-round contributions, Ashwin is one of the most celebrated cricketers in Indian history. With over 750 international wickets and six Test centuries to his name, he has left an indelible mark on the sport. From his humble beginnings in Chennai to becoming a global cricketing icon, Ashwin’s journey is a tale of determination, innovation, and brilliance.
Key Information About Ravichandran Ashwin
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Ravichandran Ashwin |
Nickname | Ash |
Date of Birth | September 17, 1986 |
Place of Birth | Chennai, Tamil Nadu |
Parents | Father: Ravichandran (Club-level cricketer), Mother: Chitra |
Siblings | None |
Spouse | Narayanan Prithi (married in 2011) |
Children | Daughters: Akhira (2015), Aadhya (2016) |
Height | 6 ft 2 in (188 cm) |
Weight | 75 kg (165 lbs) |
Education | B.Tech in Information Technology from SSN College of Engineering, Chennai |
Profession | Cricketer (All-rounder) |
Net Worth | ₹132 crore (approx.) |
Reasons for Fame | Exceptional off-spin bowling, six Test centuries |
Early Life and Childhood
Ravichandran Ashwin was born into a Tamil-Brahmin family with a strong inclination toward sports. His father, Ravichandran, was a club-level fast bowler who introduced young Ashwin to cricket. Growing up in Chennai, Ashwin attended Padma Seshadri Bala Bhavan School and later St. Bede’s Anglo Indian Higher Secondary School. It was during his school days that he developed a passion for cricket.
Initially an opening batsman, Ashwin’s career took a turn when he suffered a pelvic injury at the age of 14. This incident led him to focus on spin bowling—a decision that would define his future. Encouraged by his mother to pursue spin bowling instead of pace, he began honing his craft.
Ashwin’s academic journey ran parallel to his cricketing aspirations. He pursued a degree in Information Technology from SSN College of Engineering in Chennai. Despite the demands of engineering studies, he balanced academics and cricket with remarkable skill.
Professional Journey and Achievements
Domestic Cricket
Ashwin made his first-class debut for Tamil Nadu in December 2006. His performances in domestic cricket caught the attention of selectors, paving the way for his IPL debut with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in 2008.
Rise Through IPL
Ashwin’s breakthrough came during the 2010 IPL season when he played a pivotal role in CSK’s title win. Known for his accuracy and variations like the carrom ball, he became a go-to bowler for CSK during powerplays and death overs. His performances earned him recognition as one of India’s premier spinners.
International Debut
Ashwin made his ODI debut against Sri Lanka on June 5, 2010, followed by his T20I debut against Zimbabwe later that year. His Test debut came on November 6, 2011, against West Indies. In his very first Test series, he was named Player of the Series for his all-round performance.
Test Cricket Dominance
Ashwin quickly established himself as one of the finest spinners in Test cricket. He became the fastest bowler to reach milestones like 300 wickets and is among only three players globally to have over 500 wickets and 3,000 runs in Tests.

IPL Legacy
After CSK’s suspension in 2016, Ashwin played for Rising Pune Supergiant and later captained Punjab Kings. Since 2022, he has been part of Rajasthan Royals.
Awards and Accolades
- ICC Cricketer of the Year (2016)
- ICC Test Player of the Year (2016)
- Arjuna Award (2014)
- ICC Test Team of the Year (multiple years)
- BCCI Polly Umrigar Award for International Cricketer of the Year (2012–13)
Chronological Timeline
Year | Event |
---|---|
1986 | Born in Chennai |
2006 | Made first-class debut for Tamil Nadu |
2008 | IPL debut with Chennai Super Kings |
2010 | ODI debut; T20I debut |
2011 | Test debut; part of India’s World Cup-winning squad |
2014 | Won Arjuna Award |
2016 | Named ICC Cricketer of the Year |
2024 | Played his 100th Test match |
Cultural and Social Background
Ashwin hails from a Tamil-Brahmin family rooted in traditional values but open to modern ideas. His upbringing emphasized both education and sports. Despite achieving global fame, Ashwin remains deeply connected to his roots.
Relationships
Ashwin married Narayanan Prithi in November 2011. Their love story began during their school days and blossomed into a lifelong partnership. The couple has two daughters: Akhira and Aadhya.
Hobbies and Interests
Off the field, Ashwin enjoys reading books, watching movies, playing tennis, basketball, and football. He is also known for his interest in technology and occasionally shares insights through podcasts.
Quotes and Anecdotes
- “I decided to quit cricket once but realized my passion couldn’t let me.”
- “The carrom ball was invented on the streets; it’s my gift to cricket.”
- “My wife Prithi has been my pillar through highs and lows.”
Did You Know?
- Ashwin is the fastest bowler to reach several milestones like 300 Test wickets.
- He holds the record for dismissing left-handed batsmen most often in Tests.
- He scored centuries while taking five-wicket hauls twice in Tests.
- Initially started as an opening batsman before switching to spin bowling.
- He captained Tamil Nadu’s Ranji team early in his career.
- Was part of India’s victorious squads in both the ODI World Cup (2011) and Champions Trophy (2013).
- Known for mastering variations like the carrom ball.
- Holds multiple records for Player-of-the-Series awards.
- Played over a decade in IPL with consistent success.
- Once considered quitting cricket to pursue an MBA.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s journey from Chennai streets to global cricketing arenas exemplifies grit and brilliance. As one of India’s greatest cricketers ever produced, he continues to inspire millions worldwide with his talent and humility!
References for Ravichandran Ashwin’s Biography
- Britannica – Ravichandran Ashwin Biography
- BCCI Official Profile – Ravichandran Ashwin
- CricToday – Ravichandran Ashwin: Milestones and Awards
- NDTV Sports – Ravichandran Ashwin Player Profile
- Kisma Sports – Ravichandran Ashwin Profile
- Hindustan Times – Ravichandran Ashwin Profile and ICC Ranking
- Wikipedia – Ravichandran Ashwin
- ESPN Cricinfo – Ravichandran Ashwin Stats and Records
- India Today – R Ashwin’s Test Cricket Journey
- Stars Unfolded – Ravichandran Ashwin Biography & More