In a recent column, cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has voiced his discontent regarding the Indian cricket management’s treatment of veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin. Despite being a top-ranked bowler and a significant contributor to Indian cricket, Ashwin’s exclusion from matches raises questions about the criteria used for team selection.
During the ongoing India-Australia Test series, Ashwin featured in only one of the first three Tests. The team management adopted a rotating policy for spinners, opting for Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja in various matches. This decision has left many, including Gavaskar, bewildered, especially considering Ashwin’s exceptional record in challenging overseas conditions.
Double Standards in Team Selection
Gavaskar highlighted a perceived double standard in the selection process. He pointed out that while struggling batters were retained in the team, Ashwin was frequently sidelined with minimal justification. “At home, there was no way he could be left out because the management knew that without him, they could not win the game,” Gavaskar remarked. This inconsistency in selection raises eyebrows about the management’s commitment to fairness.
Ashwin’s Leadership Potential
Furthermore, Gavaskar lamented Ashwin’s missed opportunities for captaincy. Despite his leadership qualities, he was never even appointed as vice-captain. Gavaskar noted, “Ashwin would have made a fine captain for India,” emphasizing the missed chance to honor a player of his caliber.
Ashwin ends his illustrious career as India’s second-highest wicket-taker across formats, reflecting his invaluable contribution to the team. As the cricketing world watches closely, one hopes that future selections will be more equitable, allowing players like Ashwin to receive the recognition they deserve.
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