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3 Reasons Why Ravichandran Ashwin's Inclusion is Good For India's World Cup Chances

image-ln4bf2fcR. Ashwin's inclusion in the WC squad came at last minute after Axar Patel was ruled out due to injury (AP News)

It has been a whirlwind couple of months especially for the Indian contingent amidst all the injury scares, unavailability issues and hectic schedule. All of this has resulted in some questionable and shocking decisions being made by the authorities with regard to their player selection in the upcoming World Cup 2023. With the most recent one being, the inclusion of specialist off-spinner, Ravichandran Ashwin in the squad after Axar Patel failed to make the cut due to a strain in his thigh.

Ravichandran Ashwin's inclusion in the Indian squad for the upcoming World Cup in India brings with it a treasure trove of advantages. His spin bowling experience and variety, all-round capabilities, and profound knowledge of Indian conditions make him a crucial asset to India's chances in the tournament. 

As the World Cup unfolds on familiar Indian grounds, Ashwin's presence may well prove to be the X-factor that propels India towards the coveted title. Let's take a closer look at these reasons:

1.Spin Bowling Experience and Variety

One of the primary reasons why Ashwin's inclusion is essential for India's World Cup chances is his wealth of spin bowling experience and his ability to provide crucial variety in the attack. In the context of Indian conditions, where pitches often offer assistance to spinners, having a seasoned campaigner like Ashwin is a distinct advantage.

image-ln4dswozAshwin has played two ODI World Cups with the Indian Team so far (Twitter)

Ashwin's mastery over spin variations, including off-spin, carrom ball, etc. adds a layer of complexity to his bowling. This variety can confound opposition batsmen who struggle to read his deliveries, making him a potent wicket-taking threat.

Moreover, Ashwin's experience allows him to adapt to different conditions swiftly. He understands the nuances of Indian pitches, knowing when to flight the ball, when to vary the pace, and how to exploit any assistance that the track may provide.


2.All-Round Ability

Ashwin is not just a specialist bowler; he brings a substantial all-round dimension to the team. His batting prowess adds depth to India's batting lineup, providing flexibility in the order. In a tournament as demanding as the World Cup, where adapting to various match situations is crucial, Ashwin's batting skills become particularly relevant and handy.



His ability to contribute with the bat can be a game-changer. In pressure situations or when India needs quick runs in the latter stages of an inning, Ashwin's confidence and capability with the bat can turn the tide in India's favour. A lower-order partnership or a cameo innings from him can swing matches in India's direction, making him a valuable asset in crunch situations.

Furthermore, Ashwin's utility as a part-time bowler adds to his all-round value. He can provide crucial breakthroughs with his spin, allowing the team to manage their primary bowlers' workloads efficiently. This dual role as a dependable bowler and a handy batsman can significantly enhance India's tactical options in the World Cup.

3.Experience of Playing the World Cup

Another compelling reason for Ashwin's inclusion is his prior experience of playing in the World Cup, having featured in the tournament twice before. This experience can be invaluable in high-pressure situations, especially in a tournament as prestigious as the World Cup. Ashwin understands the unique demands, expectations, and dynamics of World Cup cricket.

His prior World Cup appearances provide him with a deeper understanding of the tournament's intricacies. He knows how to handle the pressure of representing India on the grand stage, having been through the rigors of knockout matches and high-stakes encounters. This composure and experience can prove to be a guiding light for the team during critical moments.

image-ln4dgapkR.Ashwin with KL Rahul at the 2nd ODI against Australia  (AP News)

Moreover, Ashwin's knowledge of Indian pitches, which can vary greatly from one region to another, allows him to tailor his bowling strategy accordingly. He knows the importance of subtle variations, the significance of drift and turn, and how to exploit any assistance the pitches may offer. This insight is invaluable, especially in a tournament where home advantage can play a decisive role.