India will need to use 10 men and four specialist bowlers for the duration of the third Test. The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), which is in charge of upholding the game’s laws, states that umpires have the authority to substitute a fielder if they have reason to believe that a player has been hurt or becomes ill during the match.
A team may use a substitute fielder for a “wholly acceptable reason,” according to MCC rule No. 24.1.1.2. A replacement is not permitted to bowl or lead the team; nevertheless, they are permitted to take wickets but only with the umpires’ approval.
As Ashwin did not sustain any injuries or become ill during the match, India may only use Rajkot as a substitute fielder with the opposition captain Ben Stokes’ approval.
Who is going to take Ashwin’s place?
India can substitute all-rounder Washington Sundar in the squad for Ashwin if he is ruled out of the fourth Test. Beyond its Test team, India’s other alternatives for spin bowling include Jayant Yadav, Jalaj Saxena, and Pulkit Narang.
The final two Test matches of the five-game series will be held at Ranchi (February 25–29) and Dharamsala (March 7–11), with India playing England.
Also Read: Due to a family medical emergency, Ashwin has withdrawn from the 3rd India-England Test match
For More: ICC