Cheteshwar Pujara reveals R Ashwin’s bizarre wicket-taking superstition

Former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara has shared an entertaining insight into one of R Ashwin's quirky on-field habits during their time playing together for India. The right-hand batter opened up about a superstitious ritual that Ashwin followed whenever he was preparing to bowl, revealing the specific role Pujara played in the process.

The anecdote highlighted the bond between the two players and showed how Ashwin relied on a particular routine to boost his chances of taking wickets during matches.

During the India-Sri Lanka Test series, Pujara was commentating and disclosed the amusing details of Ashwin's superstition. The off-spinner considered Pujara his good luck charm and would request him to collect his cap before giving it to the umpire as he was about to bowl.

What was Ashwin's superstitious ritual?

Pujara explained that whenever Ashwin was not getting wickets, he would look around the field in search of him to perform this ritual.

"When Ashwin used to come to bowl, he wanted me to take his cap and give it to the umpire. Whenever he wasn't getting any wickets, he would look around the field in search of me," Pujara said on Sony Sports Network.

The former India batter further elaborated on how Ashwin believed this particular routine would change his fortunes on the field. According to Pujara, Ashwin felt that the act of having his teammate collect his cap and hand it to the umpire would provide him with the opportunity he needed to take a wicket. This superstition became a recurring pattern during their time together in the Indian team.

"He felt that if I took the cap from him and gave it to the umpire, he might just have a chance of getting a wicket," Pujara added.

Ashwin, who finished his international career with 765 wickets across all three formats, has since acknowledged Pujara's revelation. The off-spinner reposted Pujara's video on X, responding to the anecdote with a couple of emojis. The light-hearted exchange between the two former teammates showcased the camaraderie they shared during their playing days and the memorable moments they created together on the cricket field.