Ravichandran Ashwin And Ravindra Jadeja Bowling In Tandem Doesn't Work For India - Aakash Chopra

Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra made a bold claim after the India vs Australia 1st ODI in Mohali. He pointed out that the duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja bowling together in tandem doesn’t work for the team as they aren’t getting wickets.

After almost five years, the duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja took the field for India in the ODIs. They played in the first ODI against Australia in Mohali and bowled economical spells. However, what was concerning was that they didn’t pick wickets as expected of them.

Ravichandran Ashwin returned with the figures of 1/47 in 10 overs. Whereas Ravindra Jadeja ended with figures of 1/51 from his quota of 10 overs. For off-spinner, it was the first game in ODIs since January 2022. He hasn’t been named in the Indian squad for the World Cup but is very much in contention.

Aakash Chopra noted that Ravichandran Ashwin made a staggering comeback after he was hit for boundaries in his first spell. He also highlighted Ravindra Jadeja’s economic spell and pointed out areas of concern.

Speaking in a video posted on his YouTube channel, he explained: “The spinners bowled economical spells. Ashwin did not start well; he was hit for a few boundaries. But he was playing ODI cricket after a while, so it can get difficult. However, he bounced back strongly and also claimed a wicket.

“Ravindra Jadeja was also economical, which is a good thing when the pitch is flat. My only concern is Jadeja and Ashwin bowling in tandem doesn’t work. If it was working, the team wouldn’t have looked in a different direction many years back.”

India moved away from the duo since they needed spinners who take wickets – Aakash Chopra On Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja

Aakash Chopra further highlighted the problems that India might have with playing both Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja.

He added the team needs wickets in the middle, saying: “India moved away from the duo since they needed spinners who take wickets in the middle overs. Suddenly, you leave that trajectory and move in a different direction.

“The purpose of the change is then defeated. You need wickets in the middle overs. Australia were ordinary with the bat, but we need more wickets in the middle overs.”

India won the first game of the series by the margin of 5 wickets. They will be next seen in action during the second ODI, which will take place on 24 September.