The unfortunate injury to all-rounder Axar Patel has created a potential vacancy, and Ashwin is leaving no stone unturned in his efforts to claim that position should Axar fail to recover in time for the mega tournament.
India captain Rohit Sharma has also voiced his support for Ashwin’s inclusion, stating that Ashwin is “very much in line” to make the World Cup squad.
Before the first ODI against Australia on Friday, Ashwin’s last appearance in an ODI for India was in January 2022, during a match against South Africa.
Following India’s convincing 5-wicket victory over Australia in Mohali, Ashwin, who claimed the wicket of Marnus Labuschagne while conceding 47 runs in his allotted 10 overs, was spotted engaging in batting practice.
A video capturing this moment was shared by a user on social media after the match had concluded in Mohali.
“How cool is that?” former India cricketer Abhishek Nayar said on camera.
“He (Ashwin) is batting right in the centre, he’s got a net out. And that’s where the support staff really works hard. It’s past 10, it’s late and they are still going. He’s got Rahul Dravid at square leg, Vikram Rathour at slips, Mark Waugh at fine leg, so it’s a terrific part of the preparation. I’m sure the management has told him to work on his batting.”
During an interview on bcci.tv, Ashwin had admitted that the ODI series against Australia ODIs is a ‘big opportunity’ for him.
“It’s a great opportunity for me. I have always said over the last 3-4 years that it’s not about what I want to achieve in these opportunities. I just want to enjoy myself, give myself the best chance. When I went back from West Indies, I took a break, played a few club games. The team management has kept me in loop and told me to just stay ready whenever there is a chance. I was just touching base with my fitness. Started bowling a few sessions,” Ashwin said.
“I want to bring something different to the table so I have been working on some angles because one-day cricket is not just about spin anymore. It’s more about the angles, the usage of the crease, its depth. I’m trying to put myself in a zone of discomfort, to try and push barriers as always because for me what comes first is the pride of my performance and what best abilities and talent I can showcase,” he added.
