Ahead of India's World Cup warm-up clash against England in Guwahati, seasoned spinner Ravichandran Ashwin revealed that the 2023 ODI Cricket World Cup might mark his curtain on ICC tournaments. This revelation comes on the heels of his unexpected selection into the squad as a replacement for the injured all-rounder, Axar Patel. Even Ashwin confessed that this sudden inclusion caught him off-guard since he hadn’t anticipated being part of the squad.
"Pressure is of paramount importance for most players in this tournament. Being in a good space and training to enjoy the game will hold me in good stead I reckon. Want to enjoy the tournament. I don't know I have kept saying this, this could be my last World Cup for India. For me enjoying the tournament is more important," Ashwin told host broadcasters, as quoted by Cricbuzz.
Just a fortnight ago, while the Indian cricket contingent was engrossed in the Asia Cup in Colombo, Ashwin was donning a different hat, interviewing cricket luminaries. However, in a swift twist of events reminiscent of his return for the T20 World Cup 2022, Ashwin finds himself back in the limelight, representing Team India in another major event.
Despite his minimal ODI appearances in recent years – a mere five ODIs over the last six – his inclusion came as a silver lining after Patel's unfortunate injury. Yet, the clock is ticking for the 37-year-old off-spinner. With young talents like Washington Sundar waiting in the wings and the probable absence of Ashwin in the T20 World Cup 2024, his focus might pivot to Tests leading up to the 2025 World Test Championship final.
Ashwin's future, especially in the World Cup context, seems uncertain. Multiple injuries and the evolution of team dynamics hint at a dwindling need for his expertise. Although his prowess in the IPL is commendable, the national T20 side leans more towards versatile all-rounders over specialists. Emerging talents like Tilak Varma, who boasts proficiency both as an off-spin bowler and a top-order batter, coupled with Sundar's off-spin capabilities, might signal a changing of the guard in the spin department.
In sum, while Ashwin's illustrious journey has been nothing short of commendable, the sands of time and the rise of new talents might pave the way for a new chapter in Indian cricket.
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