The cricketing arena is abuzz with discussions on India's potential squad for the ODI World Cup 2023. Former Team India's chief selector MSK Prasad recently opined that seasoned off-spinner R Ashwin might ‘hold an edge’ in the forthcoming World Cup if the team is on the hunt for a prime spin-bowling candidate.
Earlier in the year, India unveiled their 15-member troop for the 2023 World Cup. Surprisingly, R Ashwin didn't find a spot, with the selection committee favoring the spin trio of Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel. However, the tables seem to be turning, with Axar Patel's participation in the World Cup now appearing uncertain due to his injury during the Asia Cup Super 4 encounter against Bangladesh. The aftermath of his injury led to Washington Sundar's inclusion in the team. Moreover, Axar's injury has also caused him to miss the impending two-match ODI series against Australia.
Weighing in on the situation, Prasad conveyed, ''I think Ashwin will be slightly ahead now that a bowler of his stature has been called into the mix. I have always felt that Ashwin should have been in the mix from the time the team got into the ODI World Cup mode.''
Prasad further emphasized the importance of Axar's fitness for the concluding ODI in Rajkot, stating, ''Look, let us hope that Axar is fit for the final ODI in Rajkot. Because if he is fit, however well Ashwin or Washy bowl, it will be Axar who will retain his place. If he has been your pick ahead of these two, then you have to have him if he is good to go.''
Diving deeper into the team's choices, Prasad noted, "But this is one of the most fascinating World Cup trials that you will get (to see). Question is: if they are looking at a 50-50 batting-bowling option then it is Washy. But if they are looking at a purely spin bowling option, then Ash holds an edge as far as I am concerned.''
Having been instrumental in shaping India's World Cup 2019 team, Prasad believes that Ashwin has the potential to leave an indelible mark, especially on spinner-friendly pitches, like at the Chepauk. Envisioning Ashwin's potential showdowns, he added, ''I believe some of the tracks will offer help for spinners. In Chennai, think about Ashwin's possible match-up against Steve Smith or a left-hander like David Warner. Yes, his successes came in the red ball (cricket) but just think about the possibilities."
R Ashwin, who celebrated his 37th birthday recently, played his latest ODI in January 2022 against South Africa. Across 113 ODIs, the spinner boasts 151 scalps, including a commendable four-wicket haul.
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