Ravichandran Ashwin, the veteran Indian spinner, has ignited discussions ahead of the second Test between India and England with his forthright views on team selection, player responsibility, and commitment to Test cricket. With the series already underway, Ashwin's comments add another layer of intrigue as India seeks to level the score in Edgbaston.
Ashwin has been vocal about the need for players to take more responsibility, hinting that the bowling performance in the first Test was not up to the mark, but he also cautioned against placing blame solely on the bowlers. He emphasized the importance of senior bowlers like Mohammed Siraj stepping up to control the flow of runs, relieving pressure on Jasprit Bumrah and allowing for strategic bowling changes. Ashwin suggested that Siraj should focus on accuracy and consistency, drawing inspiration from bowlers like Morne Morkel, who could maintain pressure without necessarily taking wickets every over.
Team selection has also been a key point of discussion. Ashwin strongly advocated for the inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav in the second Test, believing the left-arm wrist-spinner could be a game-changer. He stated that if India is serious about taking 20 wickets, Kuldeep "has to play," regardless of who makes way for him. Ashwin believes Kuldeep's inclusion would not only strengthen the bowling attack but also trouble the England tailenders. He also weighed in on the debate surrounding Prasidh Krishna, who had a mixed performance in the first Test. While acknowledging Krishna's inconsistency, Ashwin backed him to continue, citing his potential to deliver "lethal wicket-taking deliveries" and the need to groom him as a future lead pacer, especially with workload management concerns surrounding Bumrah.
Ashwin also touched upon the broader issue of commitment to Test cricket in an era dominated by T20s. He challenged Gautam Gambhir and Shubman Gill, questioning their dedication to the longer format and their willingness to adapt and perform under pressure. Ashwin's comments serve as a challenge to the team's think tank and the younger players, urging them to demonstrate a genuine commitment to the traditional format of the game. He specifically mentioned Yashasvi Jaiswal and the possible impact on the player's confidence after he was moved from the slip cordon after dropping catches in the first test. Ashwin argued that leadership involves supporting players who are feeling deflated, rather than immediately shifting them out of key fielding positions.
Beyond specific player recommendations, Ashwin's broader point is about fostering a culture of responsibility and adaptability within the Indian team. He alluded to the importance of players understanding their roles and contributing effectively to the team's cause, whether it's through taking wickets, controlling runs, or displaying resilience in the field.
As the second Test approaches, it remains to be seen how the team management will respond to Ashwin's views. His insights, however, have undoubtedly added fuel to the fire, raising important questions about India's approach to the game and the responsibility each player must shoulder to achieve success. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) also plays a crucial role in promoting discipline, unity, and professionalism within the team.
