In a surprising revelation, Ravichandran Ashwin, the seasoned off-spinner of team India, shares insights into the early days of his cricketing journey, shedding light on his hidden batting prowess.
Ashwin, known for his lethal spin bowling, discloses that during the initial phase of his career, his batting abilities were largely unknown. It was only after a remarkable Test century that then-captain MS Dhoni recognized and appreciated his batting skills.
Unveiling the Hidden Talents
The 37-year-old Tamil Nadu-born cricketer, with 3,309 runs in 99 Tests, including five centuries, reflects on his journey. Three of those centuries were achieved on home turf, with a personal best of 124, showcasing his prowess as a capable batter.
Speaking to ESPN’s Cricket Monthly, Ashwin admits that batting didn’t come naturally to him, especially given his lower-order batting position. His breakthrough moment came in his third Test when he surprised everyone with a remarkable century.
A Revelation in the IPL
Ashwin confesses, “I don’t think MS knew that I could bat as well as I did.” The limited exposure to his batting skills in the IPL left many unaware of his potential with the bat. Despite starting as an ordinary No. 9, he managed to evolve into a genuine batting force.
Triumph Against West Indies
The veteran recalls his maiden century against the West Indies in 2011 at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. Scoring 103 runs off 118 deliveries in the first innings, he also contributed with nine wickets, resulting in a draw.
Revisiting those struggles, Ashwin shares the challenges he faced before the 2013 series against Australia. Competing with the likes of Parvez Rasool and Harbhajan Singh for a spot, he vividly remembers the doubts surrounding his position.
Overcoming Challenges
Ashwin’s ability to thrive under pressure becomes evident as he explains, “I made it external.” Despite internal battles, he strategically puts pressure on the opposition, turning the game in his favor. His unique approach has been instrumental in his success, showcasing resilience and determination.
Leading the Series
As Ashwin reflects on his journey, team India, led by Rohit Sharma and Co., stands strong with a 3-1 scoreline against England in the ongoing five-Test series. The off-spinner’s multifaceted contribution continues to be a key factor in India’s success on the cricketing stage.
In essence, Ravichandran Ashwin’s journey from an underrated batsman to a vital run-scorer underscores the unpredictable and fascinating aspects of cricket, proving that talent can emerge from the most unexpected corners.
You can also check out Ashwin’s Cricketing Comrades.
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