Ravichandran Ashwin has taken a strong stance against Ben Stokes’ recent remarks on injury substitutions, urging the England captain to show more empathy towards opposing players. The former Indian spinner criticized Stokes following his comments during the press conference after the fourth Test at Old Trafford — remarks that sparked renewed debate around injury substitutions, a topic that had already gained traction throughout the England-India series.
The issue came into focus when Indian wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant suffered a foot injury while batting during the first innings at Old Trafford. He was forced to retire hurt and was carted off the field, unable to walk. Yet, displaying immense grit, Pant returned the next day and played a pivotal knock, scoring a vital half-century.
In a similar instance, England’s Chris Woakes injured his shoulder while fielding on the first day of the fifth Test at The Oval. Although officially ruled out of the game, Woakes showed resilience by coming out to bat in the second innings — his arm in a sling — in a brave effort to support England’s final chase.
Ashwin’s comments underline the physical and emotional toll players endure during high-stakes matches, and his call for empathy serves as a reminder of the human element behind every on-field decision.
Ravichandran Ashwin Fires Back at Ben Stokes Over Injury Substitution Remark
Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin didn’t hold back while responding to Ben Stokes’ recent comments on injury substitutions. Speaking on his YouTube channel “Ash Ki Baat”, Ashwin criticized the England captain’s dismissive take on the topic, urging him to show more empathy and choose his words wisely.
Ashwin began by acknowledging his respect for Stokes as a cricketer but made it clear that certain remarks should be reconsidered.
“I’m a huge admirer of Ben Stokes and his attitude. But you must think before you speak,” Ravichandran Ashwin said.
Referring to the situation at Old Trafford, where Rishabh Pant was injured, Ravichandran Ashwin recalled how the media raised the question of using injury substitutions.
“After Pant’s injury, there were talks about bringing in a substitute. Gautam Gambhir even stated that substitutions are necessary in such cases. But Stokes dismissed it outright, calling it ‘absolutely a joke’,” Ravichandran Ashwin recounted.
Ravichandran Ashwin emphasized that using terms like “joke” or “ridiculous” is not only disrespectful but also lacks perspective.
“Put yourself in that situation – if a player like Rishabh Pant was in your team and got injured, wouldn’t you want a fair replacement? It’s okay to have an opinion, but respect matters. Karma catches up fast,” he added.
To add context, Dhruv Jurel was allowed to keep wickets for India during the third and fourth Tests after Pant’s injury but wasn’t permitted to bat. Eventually, Jurel replaced Pant in the playing XI for the fifth Test after the latter was ruled out.
Ironically, England found themselves in a similar situation during the fifth Test, when Chris Woakes sustained an injury, echoing India’s own challenges from earlier matches.
The closely-fought five-match Test series concluded with a 2-2 draw. India clinched a dramatic victory at The Oval, defending a target of 374 runs and bowling out England for 367. Mohammed Siraj starred with a five-wicket haul in the second innings, sealing a thrilling six-run win for the visitors.