In a surprising move that left cricket experts and fans bewildered, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma‘s decision to exclude off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin from the playing XI in the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia sparked a wave of criticism and debate. Despite Ashwin’s recent success against Australia, the Indian team management opted for an all-pace attack with Ravindra Jadeja as the sole spinner.
The controversial decision proved costly for India, as they ultimately lost the crucial match to Australia. Ashwin’s absence became a focal point of discussion, with even legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar questioning the skipper’s choice.
In light of the uproar surrounding his exclusion, Ashwin has now shared his thoughts on not getting an opportunity to play in the summit clash against the Aussies. The world’s top-ranked Test bowler expressed his eagerness to participate in the high-stakes match and contribute to the team’s success.
However, Ashwin admitted that he had apprehensions about not being included in the final XI. The Chennai-born cricketer also spoke about his improvement when it comes to bowling in overseas conditions.
“I would have loved to play because I have played a part in us getting there. Even in the last final I got four wickets and bowled really well. Ever since 2018-19, my bowling overseas has been fantastic and I have managed to win games for the team. I am looking at it as a captain or coach and I’m just talking in hindsight, in their defence. So, the last time when we were in England, it was 2-2 with a drawn Test and they would have felt 4 pacers and 1 spinner is the combination in England. That is what they might have thought going into the final,” said Ashwin in an interview to The Indian Express.
“I knew I was going to be left out 48 hours before. So, for me, my entire goal was to make sure I can contribute to the guys and help us win a title because I played a part in it,” he added.
