Former New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori has backed Ravichandran Ashwin to deliver the goods for the team in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022. Ashwin has all the experience under his belt and he is going to hold the key for the team.
In the absence of Ravindra Jadeja, Ashwin could be the second spinner of the team along with Yuzvendra Chahal. The right-hander can also provide crucial runs while batting down the order.
Meanwhile, Ashwin was also picked in the 2021 T20 World Cup squad but didn’t get to play in the pivotal matches against Pakistan and New Zealand, which the team lost. Since then, Ashwin hasn’t been a regular part of the T20I team but he took part in the recently concluded Asia Cup.
It is well known that Ashwin has a plethora of variations in his arsenal and he is a wily customer. The 35-year-old from Tamil Nadu has an impressive economy rate of 6.81 in T20I cricket.
Vettori told reporters: “We all know Ashwin has been exceptional in Tests. The thing for him is he’s coming off a great IPL, and he’s obviously included in the T20 squad for India. He’s one of those guys who’s very adaptable, he understands what he needs to do in all situations. I think if he’s picked he will know how to perform. He’s been to Australia on a number of occasions.”
“India does have a plethora of spin bowlers, a lot to choose from. The fact that most of the spinners are all-rounders as well I think that sets him apart and gives the team a good balance.”
Vettori added that India’s spin group is in safe hands for the future. Spinners like Ravi Bishnoi are rising through the ranks and India has many spin options under their sleeve.
“In the sub-continent, you can rely on the wicket doing a bit more work for you. But the key to success in Australia is the ability to probably get more top-spin than side-spin which happens more and more in the sub-continent.”
“Particularly when you see those legends at the top, the likes of Ashwin, Jadeja in Test cricket and their ability to transition through all three formats, so many young spinners aspire to that level. I can’t talk much about the young group coming through but the Indian spin group is in good hands because of the players that I’ve mentioned.”
India will take on Australia at Mohali on 20th September.
