The exclusion of Ravichandran Ashwin from the Indian squad for the World Test Championship Final continues to be a highly debated topic in the cricketing world. Several former cricketers, including Sachin Tendulkar, have questioned the team’s strategy, considering Ashwin was the highest wicket-taker for India in the previous edition of the WTC cycle.
Ravichandran Ashwin expressed his disappointment, mentioning that he would have eagerly played in the summit clash, but the decision was communicated to him only 48 hours before the match. Although he was not on the field, the 36-year-old actively assisted the team in various capacities at the Oval and engaged in conversations with Rahul Dravid during breaks. Ashwin played a very crucial role in getting India to the Final. Ashwin is India’s premier spinner. A lot of experts also believe that India missed a trick by not playing Ashwin.
Interestingly, upon returning to India after the final, Ashwin made a revealing remark. Highlighting the changing dynamics in the Indian dressing room. He mentioned that his teammates are now more like colleagues rather than friends. Indicating a shift from the camaraderie that existed in the past to a more professional environment prevalent in modern times.
‘We were once friends, now we’re colleagues’
Ashwin said:
“Once upon a time when cricket was played, all your teammates were friends. Now, they are colleagues. There’s a big difference. Because here people are there to advance themselves. And to stride ahead of another person sitting to your right or left. So, nobody’s got the time to say, ‘okay, boss what are you up to’?”
Despite not taking a break, Ravichandran Ashwin immediately joined the Dindigul Dragons. In the ongoing Tamil Nadu Premier League, where his captaincy has gained attention. His team currently holds the third position on the points table. Given his skills and dominance, the off-spinner can prove to be extremely valuable for India. Particularly on the Caribbean soil where spinners tend to excel. Notably, Ashwin can be a formidable force for India throughout the ongoing World Test Championship cycle, not just against West Indies.
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