Ravichandran Ashwin, currently the highest-ranked Test bowler in the world, has shared his thoughts on being excluded from the Indian playing XI for the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023 Final against Australia. Ashwin expressed his desire to be a part of this crucial match, citing his past contributions to the team in previous finals and his exceptional performance overseas since 2018-19.
In reflecting on the team’s decision, Ashwin acknowledged to the Indian Express that the captain and coach may have believed that a combination of four pacers and one spinner would be more effective in the English conditions.
“I am looking at it from the perspective of a captain or coach, and I’m just speaking in retrospect, in their defense,” he told the publication while adding, “The last time we were in England, it was a 2-2 draw and they may have thought that the combination of four pacers and one spinner is ideal for England. That is probably what they had in mind for the final.”
Nevertheless, Ashwin emphasized the importance of the fourth innings for a spinner to have an impact, suggesting that the mindset of putting up enough runs to allow the spinner to play a crucial role.
Addressing the issue of judgment and perception, Ashwin maintains that he does not concern himself with others’ opinions or evaluations of his abilities. He acknowledged the significance of self-assessment and expressed his commitment to continuous improvement, never complacent with his accomplishments.
When asked about dealing with setbacks while performing at his best, Ashwin viewed them as mere obstacles, experiences that provide an opportunity to learn and come back stronger. He emphasized the importance of facing challenges and developing resilience to overcome them, regardless of one’s current form.