Having left on day two due a family emergency, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed Ashwin's return for day four of the Test on Sunday.

Compatriot Kuldeep Yadav speculated Ashwin's return speaking to the host broadcaster before day four action of the third Test, with the national body and Ashwin confirming the news during the morning session. The news came with the hosts building a lead in excess of 350 runs, holding the upper hand over the visitors in a quest to take a 2-1 series lead, as well 12 World Test Championship points.

Ashwin would likely reach the venue by the second session of Sunday's play.

Before his departure, Ashwin celebrated his 500th wicket in Test cricket on Day two with the wicket of Zak Crawley. He became the ninth bowler in Test history to surpass the 500-wicket milestone and is the only Indian bowler to achieve this feat after Anil Kumble.

Ashwin and his family have requested privacy as they continue to navigate situation which forced the spinner's departure from the team.