Xtra Time Web Desk: Ace off spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who was named in the 15-member Indian squad for ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 is leaving no stone unturned to make it a successful campaign for him as well. Ashwin was named as a replacement for injured Axar Patel on Thursday, September 28 by BCCI. The veteran spinner was among the four Indian players who turned up for the optional training session at the Amingaon Cricket Ground here in Guwahati on Friday. Shubman Gill, Shardul Thakur, and Ishan Kishan were the other three Indian cricketers.
Ashwin was seen bowling alone in the nets with a single stump. He was closely followed by Team India Head Coach Rahul Dravid and bowling coach Paras Mhambrey. The presence of Dravid and Mhambrey closely observing Ashwin’s practice sessions suggests a hands-on approach from the coaching staff, emphasizing the importance of the veteran spinner in the team’s strategy.
The veteran spinner also batted for a long time in the nets against both local pacers and spinners. The fact that he participated in an optional training session and engaged in both bowling and batting drills indicates his commitment to making a significant impact in the tournament.
Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan too had an extended batting session in the nets. Shubman has been in scintillating form recently. Ishan Kishan too had been a consistent performer with the bat whatever opportunities he has got.
The Men in Blue will be taking on England in the first warm up game at the Assam Cricket Association stadium here in Barsapara, Guwahati. The warm-up game against defending champions England will likely serve as a crucial opportunity for the players to fine-tune their skills and strategies before the main tournament begins.
It will be interesting to see how Ashwin, along with the rest of the team, performs in the warm-up matches and subsequently in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.