Former Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has urged India's top-order batsmen, including captain Shubman Gill, to take more responsibility and aim for substantial scores, moving beyond just centuries. This call to action comes in the wake of India's recent Test match against England, where despite scoring five centuries across two innings, the team suffered a five-wicket defeat. Ashwin highlighted the lack of significant contributions from the lower order, emphasizing the need for the top batsmen to convert their centuries into "daddy hundreds".

Ashwin, speaking on his YouTube channel, acknowledged the batsmen's efforts but questioned whether the runs scored had a decisive impact on the game. He pointed out the current fragility of India's lower order, suggesting that the top order needs to bat deeper into the innings. He stated that the team needs to accept that there might not be significant batting contributions from the tailenders, as the fast bowlers are not able to score runs consistently.

In recent series, India has leaned towards selecting teams with greater batting depth, often favoring all-rounders like Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, or Washington Sundar. While this strategy aims to provide a cushion, the reliance on bowlers to contribute meaningfully with the bat has frequently faltered under pressure. The recent Test match at Headingley exemplified this issue, with minimal resistance from India's lower order, placing the onus of scoring on the top six batsmen.

Ashwin also addressed the broader issue of commentary and criticism directed towards the Indian bowlers. He felt that the narrative shifted to blaming the bowlers after England successfully chased down a target of 370. He countered this by pointing out that scores have been chased down consistently in England in the fourth innings. Ashwin said that he would be okay with Jasprit Bumrah having a higher economy rate, while the other bowlers should maintain tight lines.

Ashwin's comments come as India prepares for the second Test match against England at Edgbaston. He stressed the importance of the team's ability to take 20 wickets, urging Gautam Gambhir and Shubman Gill to commit to this goal when selecting the team. He suggested including Kuldeep Yadav in the team, potentially in place of Shardul Thakur, and retaining Prasidh Krishna based on his performance in the previous Test. He also mentioned Arshdeep Singh and Akash Deep as potential options if Jasprit Bumrah is rested.

Furthermore, Ashwin has previously expressed his thoughts on Shubman Gill's captaincy, noting that Gill may be feeling overwhelmed by the responsibility. He emphasized the importance of Gill getting a good start as a batsman to avoid any doubts about his place in the team.

While Ashwin acknowledged that "nobody is really a mug with the bat" these days, he wants the top order to perform well. He also lauded Vernon Philander's batting technique.

Ravichandran Ashwin retired from international cricket in December 2024.