In the aftermath of India’s disappointing loss in the World Test Championship final, Ravichandran Ashwin, the renowned off-spinner, finds himself in the spotlight. The decision to exclude the top-ranked Test bowler from the playing XI due to unfavorable conditions has sparked widespread debate, with experts criticizing the Indian management for their choice.
Amidst the uproar, former India opener Sunil Gavaskar made a thought-provoking observation, highlighting that a top-ranked batsman would never face such treatment regardless of the pitch. This sparked introspection from Ashwin, who reflected on his journey in the game.
Ashwin candidly expressed his disappointment at being left out of the finals, acknowledging his significant contributions over the past two years. He believed that his presence on the field could have made a difference in the outcome of the match. The off-spinner’s omission has drawn comparisons to the mistreatment of other Indian players in the past, a sentiment echoed by Gavaskar.
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Responding to Gavaskar’s remarks, Ashwin shared an anecdote involving the legendary Sachin Tendulkar. Reflecting on an India-Sri Lanka match where bowlers were being pummeled, Ashwin questioned if he could do better than those struggling to contain the batsmen. This inspired him to pursue off-spin bowling.
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However, Ashwin revealed a surprising regret, stating that if he could turn back time, he would have chosen a different path and become a great batsman instead. Recognizing the distinct parameters that exist between batting and bowling in the game, Ashwin expressed his desire to have excelled in the art of batting.
Despite the unfair treatment he believes he has faced, Ashwin accepts the need to perform whenever he receives limited opportunities. This introspective revelation showcases the complexity of his emotions and the challenges he has encountered throughout his career.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s contemplations offer a captivating glimpse into the mind of a talented cricketer who yearns to leave his mark in multiple facets of the game. As discussions continue to swirl around his exclusion from the WTC final, the cricketing world eagerly awaits his next opportunity to prove his worth and showcase his exceptional skills as both a bowler and, perhaps, a batsman.