Yasir wants match with Ashwin after breaking his record

Pakistani leg-spinner became fastest Asian to claim 100 Test wickets

Pakistan leg-spinner Yasir Shah expressed desire for a showdown with India’s Ravichandaran Ashwin after he completed his five-wicket haul in Dubai against the West Indies in the first of three-match Test series on Sunday.

The leggie became the joint-second quickest to 100 Test wickets when he claimed five scalps for 121 in his 17th match, overtaking the Indian all-rounder who achieved the feat in 18 matches.

Yasir revealed his wish for a Test face-off with Ashwin in what would be a battle of two of cricket’s fastest wicket-taking spinners.

Yasir Shah becomes fastest Asian to claim 100 wickets in Tests

“Every Pakistani and Indian player has this wish to play against each other,” said Yasir. “I have not played a Test against India so it’s my wish,” he added.

Heading into the Test against the West Indies, Ashwin tweeted a good luck message to Yasir. He showed support for the Pakistani spinner saying, “Good luck, may the force be with him [Yasir].” The all-rounder added that Yasir is “a delight to watch”.

The Pakistani leg-spinner later said that Ashwin’s words were an inspiration. “Yes, he had said good luck so I am thankful,” said Yasir. “It’s naturally motivating when a great bowler who is second fastest to 200 wickets tweets a good luck message and it’s really a great motivation for me.”



Ashwin became the second fastest to 200 wickets in the recently concluded home series against New Zealand, reaching the mark in 37 Tests. And he urged the Swabi-born spinner to follow the suit as well.

Just a little late I guess, but very well done @Shah64Y.Double it up now.🙏👍

— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) October 16, 2016

This article initially appeared on cricket.com.au