India vs Australia: VVS Laxman Predicts The Scoreline Of Five-Match Series

Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja not getting a place in the team for the first three One-Day Internationals of the upcoming five-match ODI series against Australia might have raised a lot of eyebrows but former India batsman VVS Laxman does not see anything unusual with the selector’s decision.

The role of both the spinners in the limited-overs format has been questioned by many in recent times. While they are an indispensable part of the Test team, the same cannot be said when it comes to ODIs and T20Is as they have not featured prominently in the limited-overs format in recent months. Both of them were rested for the recently-concluded limited-overs series in Sri Lanka along with pace bowling duo Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Shami. But while Yadav and Shami have returned to the side, Ashwin and Jadeja, according to chief selector MSK Prasad have been rested again.

However, Laxman feels otherwise and said that the spinners have been given an extended rest because the selectors want to try some wrist spinners after the duo’s average outing in the Champions Trophy.

“After the Champions Trophy, the selection committee took a policy decision. They wanted to have a look at some of the wrist spinners, which would add variety to the attack,” Laxman said at a promotional event.

“I sincerely believe that Ashwin and Jadeja have been communicated to by the selectors. The selectors must have told both of them that they want to try two wrist spinners, who are very talented,” he added. “They will get to play against a top quality side like Australia. Also, it doesn’t mean that Ashwin or Jadeja have been dropped..

“I am very happy how Hardik is taking a lot of burden It’s a tough role to be a finisher but he can play that role that Dhoni and Raina have done for years. Yes, he needs to be a bit more consistent with his bowling,” said Laxman.

Laxman also declined to admit that Ajinkya Rahane’s ODI career is on the wane given the recent slump in his form. After sitting on the bench during the entire Champions Trophy, the right-handed batsman pressed his claim for a regular place in the starting eleven by finishing the five-match series against Windies as the top-scorer. However, he played just one match in Sri Lanka, scoring only 5.

“Rahane is one of the leaders in the group. It’s just that we have a solid left-right combination in Shikhar (Dhawan) and Rohit (Sharma). But Rahane is certainly there in the mix and will get his opportunities,” he said.

Laxman also had a word of praise for Virat Kohli’s captaincy.

“I know Sri Lanka weren’t the strongest side but winning 9-0 shows that the team was ruthless. Virat really led the side well,” the legendary batsman said.

The stylish batsman from Hyderabad concluded by predicting the scoreline of the upcoming five-match ODI series between India and Australia, saying: “4-1 in favour of India.”