Irrespective of Conditions, Ravichandran Ashwin Is A More Than Capable Bowler - VVS Laxman

Former Indian middle-order batsman VVS Laxman has expressed his desire to see Ravichandran Ashwin back in the playing XI for the second Test against England. According to him, Ashwin is unaffected by weather and can produce wicket-taking deliveries regardless of playing conditions.

Being India’s premier spinner, Ashwin couldn’t make it to India’s playing XI for the first Test at Trent Bridge. Instead, Shardul Thakur was given the green light considering his uncanny ability to pick up wickets at crucial times. In a conversation with ESPNcricinfo, Laxman stated that the inclusion of Ashwin would add depth to the team.

“I would definitely draft in Ashwin into the playing XI. It will add depth to the Indian bowling and also versatility and different options to the captain. Irrespective of the weather forecast or the conditions, Ashwin is a more than capable bowler. He is skilful enough to perform – not only perform but to put in a match-winning performance and put pressure on the English batters,” Laxman asserted.

“Either Ashwin or Shardul’s selection will be spot on” – VVS Laxman

Although personally, Laxman would love to see Ashwin back in the team, he felt the inclusion of Shardul Thakur was also justified. Prior to the series, Ajinkya Rahane had hinted at the possibility of seeing Shardul more and more in Tests considering his batting prowess. It may not have worked out in the first Test but Shardul still chipped in with crucial wickets, as per Laxman.

“I think it is very clear that Virat Kohli wants to give a lot more responsibility to Shardul Thakur. I thought, even though he did not get runs with the bat, I thought in the limited opportunities he got as a bowler, he’s got some important wickets. Either of the selection will be spot on and will be good, but for my liking, I would love to see Ashwin in the team,” he concluded.

It will be compelling to see if Virat Kohli makes any changes to the team after stating that the team will follow the same template they established in the Nottingham Test.