When R Ashwin Bashed 'Pitch Critics' After The Infamous Ahmedabad Test

image-lrucexidAshwin criticised pitch critics in 2021 [X.Com]

The debate surrounding the quality of pitches is not uncommon in cricket, with opinions often differing based on individual perspectives, playing conditions, and the desired balance between bat and ball. The day-night Test match between India and England, which ended inside two days at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, in 2021, drew significant criticism, particularly regarding the condition of the pitch. 

The Ahmedabad pitch issue

One notable issue during the match was the deterioration of the pitch's surface, with the top layer peeling off early in the game. This suggested that the pitch might have been under-prepared or overly conducive to spin bowling, contributing to the quick conclusion of the match.

Ravichandran Ashwin's response to the criticism regarding the pitch laid out at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad reflects a common debate in cricket. The pitch in question heavily favoured spin bowling, leading to a quick finish to the Test match between India and England, with the match concluding within two days.

While batsmen from both teams struggled on the Ahmedabad surface, which assisted spin from the outset, opinions regarding the quality of the pitch varied. While none of the England players complained about the pitch, some former cricketers and commentators criticised it, labelling it a poor wicket.


When Ravichandran Ashwin asked 'Who defines good pitches?'

Ravichandran Ashwin, known for being vocal and forthright in expressing his opinions, responded to the criticism of the Ahmedabad pitch. He was not defensive when he questioned and said that the talk about the pitch was getting out of hand. There was never a debate about the pitch in any other country. 

'Everyone is entitled to their opinion and I am not here to say that your opinion is right or wrong. But the talk about the surface is getting out of hand. Is there any instance where the pitch has been talked about this much when we have played in other countries ?'

Further questioning the detractors of the Narendra Modi Stadium pitch, Ravichandran Ashwin said there are no rules that specify that the pitch should seam on the first day and aid spinners only on the last couple of days.

"The bowler wins the game, the batsmen need to bat well to score runs. Who defines what a good surface is? Seam on the first day, then bat well in the next couple of days and spin on the last two days, who makes these rules?

Ravichandran Ashwin's stats in Test cricket have indeed been remarkable, and he has earned widespread acclaim for his contributions to the Indian team.  Ashwin is the second-fastest bowler to reach 400 Test wickets, a testament to his skill, consistency, and longevity in the longest format of the game.