Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has weighed in on India’s bowling strategy in the ongoing Manchester Test, particularly questioning the handling of the spin department.
Ashwin Voices Concerns Over Spin Bowling
With England building a significant lead in the Manchester Test, the spotlight has turned to India’s bowling decisions. Veteran spinner R Ashwin shared his unique perspective on his YouTube channel, “Ash ki Baat,” expressing a “little happiness” that leg-spinner Kuldeep Yadav was once again sidelined.
Ashwin’s comments stem from what he perceived as a delayed introduction for off-spinner Washington Sundar, who was brought into the attack only in the 68th over. “You had five bowlers including two spinners, and Washington Sundar has been brought to bowl in the 68th over,” Ashwin remarked, finding the situation “a little amusing.”
The Delayed Introduction of Washington Sundar
Washington Sundar, who previously impressed with a four-wicket haul in the third Test at Lord’s, eventually picked up two crucial wickets against England with the old ball. Despite this, Ashwin believes Sundar’s potential was underutilized early on.
Ashwin suggested that Sundar could have been given the new ball, especially given the turning conditions. He noted that overspin deliveries were generating bounce and turn on the Manchester pitch, making it a prime opportunity for Sundar to make an earlier impact.
Jadeja’s Precision and Overspin Tactics
While discussing the spin attack, Ashwin praised Ravindra Jadeja’s bowling, particularly the delivery that dismissed Joe Root. Ashwin highlighted Jadeja’s technique of bowling from close to the stumps with an upright arm, which helps generate overspin.
This method ensures the ball bounces and turns effectively, making it difficult for batsmen to counter. Jadeja’s control and execution were clearly effective on the day.
Liam Dawson: A Looming Threat?
Looking ahead to India’s second innings, Ashwin also pointed out the potential threat posed by England’s off-spinner Liam Dawson. Ashwin believes that if England continues to bat strongly, Dawson could become a key player on a turning wicket.
He praised Dawson’s solid batting and predicted that the English spinner might extract more from the surface than India’s bowlers managed. This observation underscores the importance of spin as the match progresses.
- R Ashwin expressed relief that Kuldeep Yadav didn’t play, citing concerns over spin bowling strategy.
- Washington Sundar’s delayed introduction to the attack raised questions despite his eventual success.
- Ashwin highlighted Ravindra Jadeja’s effective overspin technique that troubled batsmen.
- Liam Dawson is predicted by Ashwin to be a significant threat for England in India’s second innings.
As the Test match unfolds, India’s approach to their spin attack and response to England’s lead will be crucial.
