On Sunday, September 17, 2023, cricket enthusiasts around the world will celebrate the 37th birthday of the legendary Indian spinner, R Ashwin. Born in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, on September 17, 1986, Ashwin has carved his name as one of India's greatest cricketers. As he continues to shine in the cricketing world, making a remarkable return to the T20I format, and with the T20 World Cup 2022 on the horizon, it's the perfect time to delve into some lesser-known facts about this cricketing maestro.

1. Versatile Cricketer:
While Ashwin is renowned for his spin bowling prowess, his batting skills are often overlooked. He has accumulated 3,799 international runs and is inching closer to the 4,000-run milestone. Interestingly, he kick-started his cricketing journey as an opening batsman before his childhood coach, CV Vijay, recognized his potential as an off-spin bowler, thanks to his tall frame.

2. Stellar Career:
Ashwin's cricketing journey began in 2010, a year after he burst onto the scene in the Indian Premier League (IPL). His dedication and talent have led him to play an impressive 255 international matches across all three formats for India, a remarkable achievement in itself.

3. Two ICC Trophies:
Ashwin has been an integral part of India's cricketing success. Under the captaincy of MS Dhoni, he played pivotal roles in India's triumphs at the ICC ODI World Cup in 2011 and the ICC Champions Trophy in 2013, solidifying his reputation as a match-winner on the world stage.

4. Test Match Maestro:
With 442 wickets in 86 Test matches, Ashwin is India's second-most successful bowler in this format, trailing only behind the legendary Anil Kumble, who took 619 Test wickets. The question now arises – can Ashwin surpass Kumble's record? At 36 years old, it's a monumental challenge, but Ashwin's determination remains unshaken.

5. Incredible Work Ethic:
One of the factors that set Ashwin apart from his peers is his unparalleled work ethic. Despite being in his mid-30s, he continues to earn spots in India's T20 teams, showcasing his unwavering commitment to the game. His relentless pursuit of excellence has resulted in an impressive tally of 659 international wickets, including 442 in Tests, 151 in ODIs, and 66 in T20Is.

6. Bowling Records Galore:
Ashwin's cricketing journey is marked by numerous records and achievements. He is the fastest Indian bowler to reach 300, 400, and 500 wickets in Test cricket, a testament to his exceptional skills as a spinner.

7. County Cricket Stint:
To hone his skills further, Ashwin took on the challenge of playing county cricket in England, representing Worcestershire in 2017. His successful stint overseas not only improved his bowling but also showcased his adaptability to different conditions.

8. Educated Scholar:
Beyond the cricket field, Ashwin is known for his intellectual pursuits. He holds a degree in Information Technology and is known for his articulate and insightful analysis of the game, making him a sought-after commentator and cricket pundit.

9. Passion for Tennis:
In addition to cricket, Ashwin has a passion for tennis and has played competitive tennis at the state level. His love for sports goes beyond cricket, showing his multi-dimensional personality.

10. Philanthropic Endeavors:
Ashwin is involved in various philanthropic activities and has contributed to causes such as education and healthcare. His commitment to giving back to society reflects his character off the field.

As R Ashwin celebrates his 37th birthday, his journey from a budding cricketer in Chennai to a cricketing legend on the global stage is truly inspiring. His dedication, versatility, and unwavering commitment to excellence have earned him a special place in the hearts of cricket fans worldwide. As he continues to script new chapters in his illustrious career, the cricketing fraternity eagerly awaits what more this spin wizard has in store for the world of cricket. Happy Birthday, R Ashwin!