100 Not Out

In the dynamic realm of cricket, where every match is a new challenge and every inning a test of skill and adaptability, the words of Swami Chinmayananda ring true, ‘Continuous change alone is the changeless law.’ These words find resonance in the remarkable journey of Ravichandran Ashwin, who recently achieved the milestone of playing 100 Test matches for India. Beyond the numerical significance, Ashwin's career exemplifies the essence of embracing change, evolving continuously and staying resilient amidst the shifting tides of the game.Beyond the boundaries of the cricket field, the philosophy encapsulated in Swamiji's words finds relevance in our day-to-day lives. Just as Ashwin embraces the ever-changing dynamics of cricket, we too must embrace change as an inherent aspect of existence. In our personal and professional spheres, we encounter myriad challenges, opportunities, and transitions that demand adaptability and resilience.For Ashwin, cricket is not merely a sport; it's a way of life deeply ingrained in his being. With each match, he has embraced the inevitable changes—be it in the format of the game, the conditions on the field or the strategies employed by opponents. Just as Swamiji had emphasised, Ashwin understands that stagnation is the antithesis of progress. Instead, he thrives on the perpetual flux, constantly refining his craft and adapting to the demands of the game. The journey to 100 Test matches has been a testament to Ashwin's unwavering dedication and unwavering commitment to his craft. From his debut in 2011 to the present day, he has traversed a path marked by triumphs, setbacks and invaluable lessons. Yet, through it all, Ashwin has remained steadfast in his pursuit of excellence, undeterred by the challenges that come his way..Reflecting on the significance of his achievement, Ashwin humbly downplays the numerical milestone, stating, ‘It does not mean anything to me. It means a lot to my wife and my mom. My daughters are more excited than I am. It’s just a number.’ These words encapsulate Ashwin's humility and his deep-rooted focus on the essence of the game rather than the accolades it bestows.Indeed, Ashwin's journey has not been without its share of challenges. There have been moments when he found himself relegated to the bench, particularly in overseas matches where conditions may not have favoured his style of play. However, true to his resilient spirit, Ashwin approached such situations with grace and pragmatism. He understood that team dynamics and strategic decisions sometimes necessitate tough choices, and he accepted them with a maturity that reflects his commitment to the team's success above personal glory. Ashwin's cricketing journey serves as a poignant reminder that stagnation is the enemy of progress, and that growth often requires us to step out of our comfort zones and embrace the unknown. One striking example of Ashwin's adaptability was when he was asked to open the bowling, a role typically reserved for fast bowlers. Despite being a spinner, he rose to the challenge with characteristic determination and excelled in this unfamiliar role. This unexpected turn of events marked one of the biggest turnarounds in his career, showcasing not only his versatility but also his readiness to embrace new challenges head-on. Just as Ashwin seized the opportunity to redefine his role on the field, we too can draw inspiration from his ability to thrive in unfamiliar territory. Whether it's facing unexpected career transitions or navigating uncharted waters in our personal lives, Ashwin's example reminds us that with the right mindset and determination, we can turn challenges into opportunities for growth and success. As we navigate the ever-changing currents of life, we can learn from Ashwin's spirit of adaptability and resilience, embracing change as an integral part of our journey towards realising our full potential.