Ace Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has been the center of attention recently, thanks to his stellar performances against Australia in the ongoing ODI series. As discussions about the Indian squad for the upcoming ICC World Cup intensify, the question on everyone’s mind is whether Ashwin should be included in the squad. The final verdict seems to rest in the hands of cricketing legend Sunil Gavaskar.
In the second ODI against Australia, Ashwin displayed his prowess with a remarkable three-wicket spell in Indore. With Axar Patel nursing an injury and unavailable for the third ODI in Rajkot, Ashwin is expected to get another opportunity to prove his worth.
Skipper Rohit Sharma has openly acknowledged his constant communication with Ashwin regarding the possibility of his inclusion in the World Cup squad. The discussions around Ashwin’s selection are fueled by the uncertainty surrounding Axar Patel’s fitness, who is currently recuperating at the BCCI’s National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru.
While Axar Patel’s recovery is progressing well, he is yet to regain full fitness. This situation has led cricketing stalwart Sunil Gavaskar to believe that Ashwin might have a legitimate chance to secure a spot in the World Cup squad.
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Gavaskar stated, “The way he has bowled in the last two matches, I think he has made the cut for the World Cup squad. If there is even a hint of doubt on Axar Patel’s fitness, whether he’ll be completely fit for the entire World Cup; because any injury can be a recurring one and he needs to be careful. If the team management think they can’t take that chance with Axar because it is the World Cup and everyone wants their squad to be 100 percent fit; so if there are any doubts then Ashwin could make a comeback,” during a conversation with Star Sports.
He further praised Ashwin’s performance, saying, “He has bowled exceptionally well in the last 3-4 overs he bowled in Mohali, then the way he utilized the carrom ball in Indore. So if there are any doubts on Axar, Ashwin will come back into the team.”
It’s important to note that as of now, Axar Patel is part of India’s World Cup squad. However, the management retains the option to make changes to the squad until September 28, if deemed necessary. The ultimate decision on Ashwin’s World Cup fate rests with the selectors, who must weigh his recent performances against Axar Patel’s fitness status to make an informed choice. Cricket fans across the nation await the final verdict on whether Ashwin’s remarkable comeback will extend to the grand stage of the ICC World Cup.