'There is no planning': Irfan Pathan Quizzes Team Management Over R Ashwin's ODI Recall
Ravichandran Ashwin last played an ODI in 2022 [X.com]
Off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin's sudden recall into India's ODI setup just days ahead of ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 has left several former players bemused. Ashwin has been picked in India's three-ODI series against Australia, which starts September 22, as a potential cover for Axar Patel, who is nursing an injury.
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has expressed his surprise over the decision and questioned team management. The 37-year-old 's most recent ODI for India came in 2022 and has featured in just two matches in the last six years.
Speaking to Star Sports, Pathan quizzed selectors about their planning for the showpiece event next month.
Here's what Pathan said
"You get a better spinner than Ashwin in the entire world. But in a tournament as big as the World Cup, where there is immense pressure, you can't expect a senior player to walk in and play for the team in a format which he hasn't played for a long time and prove his worth. So you are leaving it entirely to fate. There is no planning here.
Had there been a plan for Ashwin, they sould have given him some game time before the World Cup. Yes he will be playing against Australia, but is that enough? You have to bowl for 10 overs, and adjust in the team as well and give India that result. It isn't that easy. Planning should have been better,"
Ashwin will face tough competition from Washington Sundar for a spot in the XI, but given the veteran player's experience, the former might get the nod.
Interestingly, during the same conversation former India player Mohammad Kaif backed Ashwin's preference over Sundar.
The first ODI will be played in Mohali on Saturday.
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