Ashwin’s World Cup Journey: Seizing Opportunity, Experience, and Off-Spin Craftmanship In The Absence Of Axar Patel

Summary: Ashwin's comeback wasn't solely prompted by Axar's injury; it was also driven by the team's requirement for an off-spinner and Ashwin's extensive arsenal of tricks.

Ravichandran Ashwin has been named as the replacement for Axar Patel in India's World Cup squad. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) submitted an updated player list to the International Cricket Council on Thursday. It's been reported that Axar, recovering from a quadriceps injury sustained during the Asia Cup, will need a few more weeks before he can return to bowling. Following discussions with the team management, the selectors opted to bring in Ashwin. This marks Ashwin's second World Cup appearance on home soil and his third overall, joining Virat Kohli in the lineup.

While Axar's injury facilitated the change, India had been monitoring Ashwin's potential return. During the squad selection discussions for both the Asia Cup and World Cup, which involved skipper Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid, Ashwin's candidacy was extensively deliberated. The consensus was that an off-spinner would be essential in favorable home conditions.

When Ashwin was added to the roster for the three ODIs against Australia, it was apparent that India was actively considering his inclusion. This inclination was reinforced by the fact that all three spinners initially selected were left-armers. Rohit Sharma, speaking in Rajkot, emphasized Ashwin's cricketing prowess, wealth of experience, and ability to handle pressure. Despite not featuring in ODIs for approximately a year, Ashwin's enduring class and extensive experience remained undeniable attributes.

In 50-over cricket, relying on both Jadeja and Axar to bowl 20 overs can be a disadvantage, despite their batting skills. Additionally, having two left-arm spinners becomes redundant, especially against teams with left-handed batsmen like Australia, England, New Zealand, and South Africa.

Ashwin's addition offers Rohit a versatile spinner for powerplays, especially against left-handed batsmen. He complements Kuldeep and Jadeja well, and his recent carrom balls troubled batsmen in ODIs.

The MA Chidambaram Stadium, famous for its spin-friendly conditions, sets the stage for India's first match. Ashwin could have an opportunity to excel on his home turf.