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Team India’s seasoned spinner, Ravichandran Ashwin, showcased his brilliance with the ball during the recently concluded 2nd ODI against Australia at Holkar Stadium in Indore. Ashwin played a pivotal role in India’s commanding 99-run victory, which also secured their series win against the Aussies.
Ashwin’s spellbinding performance saw him claim the prized wickets of David Warner, Marnus Labuschagne and Josh Inglis, earning him a remarkable 3-wicket haul. However, it was his dismissal of Labuschagne that left cricket enthusiasts in awe. The highlight of the match was Ashwin’s bamboozling delivery, the carrom ball.
Ashwin unveils his secret weapon
Following the game, Ashwin shared his insights into the dismissal of Labuschagne and unveiled his secret weapon. He attributed the success of the carrom ball to a change in his bowling grip, a modification he made as part of his preparation for the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023.
In a video released by the BCCI, Ashwin explained his strategy, saying, “They had nothing to lose after the rain break. They had to go hard and needed a boundary every over. Chasing 400 over 50 overs is completely different than chasing (317) in 33 overs. I wanted to keep the length perfect, away from the bat, and also change pace.”
Ashwin revealed that he now employs a different grip for both his carrom ball and his stock off-spin delivery, a tactical adjustment that perplexed the Australian batsmen.
“They were not picking the variations of the hand, so maybe that angle and the change of grip to bowl the carrom ball and the off-spinner – I am using my third finger – hopefully will hold me in good stead,” Ashwin added.
Also READ: Sean Abbott unveils the actual motive behind David Warner batting right-handed against Ravichandran Ashwin
NCA training and bowling evolution
Notably, Ashwin spent time at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru during the Asia Cup 2023, where he fine-tuned his bowling skills. He credited his work with coach Sairaj at the NCA for the changes in his grip.
“I worked a little with Sairaj at the NCA on slightly different grips. We worked on it for three four days. For the amount of professional cricket, I have played over the years I should have done this a lot before,” the 37-year-old revealed.
Ashwin’s revelation about his altered grip and the subsequent success with the carrom ball has undoubtedly added an exciting dimension to his already impressive repertoire. As India prepare for the ODI World Cup 2023, the opposition will now have another challenge to contend with when facing the experienced off-spinner, provided if he features in the India squad.
