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The inclusion of seasoned India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin in the squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia, commencing on September 22, has sparked debate and discussion within cricketing circles.
Crucial ODIs before the World Cup
India and Australia are set to engage in a series of three ODIs, scheduled for September 22 in Mohali, September 24 in Indore, and September 27 in Rajkot. These games assume heightened significance as they represent the final bilateral assignment for both teams before they shift their focus to the ICC ODI World Cup 2023, slated to begin on October 5.
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Irfan Pathan’s concerns
Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan has voiced his concerns about Ashwin’s return to ODIs. While acknowledging Ashwin’s remarkable credentials and skills, Pathan questions the logic behind his immediate inclusion without giving him the opportunity to play a few matches before the Australia series. the 38-year-old believes that expecting Ashwin to deliver exceptional performances in a single series and then become a key player for India in the World Cup might be too ambitious.
“You get a better spinner than Ashwin in the entire world. But in a tournament as big as the World Cup, where there is immense pressure, you can’t expect a senior player to walk in and play for the team in a format which he hasn’t played for a long time and prove his worth. So you are leaving it entirely to fate,” Irfan said to Star Sports.
“There is no planning here. Had there been a plan for Ashwin, they sould have given him some game time before the World Cup. Yes he will be playing against Australia, but is that enough? You have to bowl for 10 overs, and adjust in the team as well and give India that result. It isn’t that easy. Planning should have been better,” the Vadodara-born cricketer concluded.
Ashwin’s ODI record and potential impact
Ashwin boasts an impressive ODI record, having played 113 fixtures for India, securing 151 wickets at an average of 33.5 and an economy rate of 4.94. If the Chennai-born cricketer makes it to the Indian World Cup squad, his ability to extract spin even from flat pitches could provide a significant advantage, especially on home turf known for its spin-friendly conditions. The debate around Ashwin’s ODI return underscores the strategic decisions facing the Indian cricket team as they prepare for a crucial tournament.
