Former India cricketer Amit Mishra talks about R. Ashwin ‘s selection in the ODI team. Ashwin’s selection for the Australian series came as a big surprise for many, as he hadn’t played an ODI for 1.5 years.
The unexpected call-up came after spin all-rounder Axar Patel’s injury during the Asia Cup tournament. His absence in the format over the last six years had raised eyebrows. However, for the last couple of World Cup’s, Ashwin always make a surprise entry to the team.
Amit Mishra, an expert with JioCinema & Sports18, offered some insights into Ashwin’s exclusion. Mishra lauded Ashwin as a quality bowler and a wicket-taker but emphasised the unique demands of ODI cricket. Unlike T20 matches, an ODI requires a player to bowl for 10 overs, field for 40 overs, and potentially contribute with the bat.
Amit Mishra said,
“Ashwin is undoubtedly a quality bowler and a wicket-taker, but remember this is not a 20-over game. It is of 50 overs. You have to bowl for 10 overs and field for 40 overs and might have to bat as well. No doubt he has been around for so long, has been a wicket-taker as well, but there is that matter of fielding as well and that is why a young player might be picked,“
“Indian team will be looking at how Ashwin will be bowling against Australia, and to assess if he still has the wicket-taking abilities in this format. The only reason why he is not in the team is because of his fielding and right-handed batting ability“
“It will depend on the wicket. If the wicket is dry, Ashwin will be picked or else Sundar, who gives the edge with his fielding abilities as well,“
However, the Australian series will be the litmus test for R. Ashwin.
Follow Crickdom on Twitter for more.
For more cricket updates, make sure to follow us on:
