New Delhi: The Indian team management’s decision to continuously bench veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin for the India vs England Test series has received repeated criticism from cricket pundits and fans. Ashwin, who is currently one of the most experienced and decorated spinners in the world, has not been included in India’s playing XI for any of the four Test matches against England.
On Thursday, at the time of the toss of the recently concluded Oval Test, Indian captain Virat Kohli again said that Ashwin was not picked in the top 5 list of bowlers to play against England. Ravindra Jadeja, who took just two wickets in the first three Tests, was once again preferred over Ashwin.
Kohli had said, “We felt that Jadeja was more suited to the situation. Right now there is a left-handed batsman in the team and he is balancing the team as a batsman at the moment.” Subsequently, Virat was put under suspicion for his decision, with many saying that preferring Ravindra Jadeja over Ashwin was just Virat’s insistence.
India adopted the strategy of fielding four fast bowlers and one specialist spinner for the fourth consecutive Test. However, Virat’s decision proved to be correct as Ashwin-less India dominated England in the fourth Test to take a 2-1 lead in the series.
Now, former South Africa captain AB de Villiers, who plays alongside Virat for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL, has urged fans to stay away from controversies and other nonsense and focus on the game.
Well played India, good captaincy @imVkohli And amazing skill and guts from some individuals. well played as well @root66 And England! Great ad for our beautiful game! excited for the finale
— AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) September 6, 2021
Ab de Villiers, who plays for Royal Challengers Bangalore in IPL, has reached UAE for the second leg of the league. Recently, in a video released by RCB, he said, “It feels great to be back. I will see you again. Some players are in England, but will come soon. We had a good start and will keep the momentum going.” I’m thrilled to be like a kid.”
RCB are currently third in IPL 2021 with ten points from seven matches. RCB will take on Kolkata Knight Riders on 20 September in Abu Dhabi.
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