India's spin maestro Ravichandran Ashwin, who on Friday reached a massive career milestone of 500 Test wickets, dedicated the historic achievement to his father and his continued support throughout his career.
Naushad Khan, the father of debutant batter Sarfaraz Khan, who teared up and was seen embracing his son after he received his India cap from stalwart spinner Anil Kumble, expressed his delight over the Mumbaikar finally realising his dream of playing for the country.
Before the start of the third Test match between India and England in Rajkot on Thursday, former India spinner Anil Kumble handed over the maiden Test cap to Sarfaraz Khan and gave the 26-year-old an inspirational speech.
Ahead of the third Test match between India and England at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot on Thursday, uncapped players like Sarfaraz Khan and Dhruv Jurel were handed their Test caps as they set to make their debut.
Star India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is on the verge of completing 500 Test wickets as he prepares for the third Test of the five-match Test series against England at Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Rajkot
Former India coach Anil Kumble was disappointed with Team India's performance in the first Test against England, calling it "pretty ordinary" and noted that Rohit Sharma-led side had the opportunity to play more aggressively and positively in their second innings in Hyderabad
Apart from him, former India spinner Anil Kumble and Indian Olympic medalist shuttler Saina Nehwal have already arrived at the temple to take part in the grand ceremony.
While speaking to ANI, Kumble said that he is looking forward to seeking the blessings of Lord Ram and added that attending the ceremony is a "wonderful feeling".
Besides Saina, Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha and star cricketers like Anil Kumble and Venkatesh Prasad have reached the state for the event. Other star cricketers who have received the invitation to attend the event are MS Dhoni, Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, Mithali