For both the Asia Cup 2023 and the World Cup 2023, the management of the Indian cricket team made an intriguing choice in the selection of spinners.
In both the Asia Cup 2023 and the World Cup 2023, the Indian cricket team’s management opted for an intriguing strategy when it came to selecting spinners. They decided to go with a trio of left-arm spinners, namely Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav. This decision meant that experienced leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal and off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin were not included in the squad. Some former Indian cricketers expressed their opinion that Ashwin could have been a valuable addition to the team. Ravichandran Ashwin, however, fully supported the team’s selection and expressed his readiness to contribute whenever he’s called upon.
“I have etched Indian cricket close to my heart. I’ve had my share of both successes and failures. If the team needs my services in the future, I’ll be prepared to give my all,” he conveyed on his YouTube channel.
In the ongoing Asia Cup, Kuldeep Yadav has showcased his brilliance, while Ravindra Jadeja has effectively utilized his experience. On the other hand, Axar Patel has been slightly less consistent. Ashwin suggested that Axar should be given some breathing room.
“At this point, we have high expectations for Axar Patel. I believe we should allow him some space. If Axar isn’t available, who can fill that role? Shardul. What can you expect from him? Bowling 5-6, sometimes 8 overs, and picking 2-3 wickets,” he commented.
“Can Axar consistently bowl 10 overs every day? Maybe not. When the workload decreases, he might unintentionally change his line and length. With more overs under his belt and regained confidence, he will excel.”
When asked recently about how he feels about not being considered for the ODI World Cup selection, Ashwin responded, “I don’t dwell on such matters because team selection is not my responsibility.”
“I made a conscious decision a while ago not to focus on things beyond my control. In terms of both my personal life and cricket, I’m in a very positive place, and I try to keep negativity out of my thought process,” Ashwin added in an interview with the Times of India.
While he typically doesn’t leave any task unfinished, the 36-year-old expressed his desire to witness India reclaim the ODI World Cup, even if he is not a part of the team.
“I live in the present moment and don’t have any unresolved ambitions. However, it’s true that I would be thrilled to see India win the World Cup again, regardless of my involvement,” remarked the iconic spinner.
