Ravichandran Ashwin is known not just for his pin-point strategies but also for his antics. In the ongoing Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) 2023, Ashwin took it up a notch when he reviewed after the DRS taken by a batter adjudged him not out. To top it all, Ashwin had an explanation for it after the match as well.
The incident took place in the 13th over of the innings. Struggling at 69/6, the Ba11sy Trichy batter went for a reckless heave. There was a clear sound and the umpire raised his finger as Ashwin appealed for caught behind. R Rajkumar was quick to opt for DRS. The ultraedge showed a clear spike but it was because the bat had hit the ground. There was clear daylight between bat and ball. Hence, the decision was reversed.
After the umpire signalled not out, Ashwin stunned everyone as he reviewed again. The commentator thought maybe he was appealing for stumping. But, Ashwin was not convinced with earlier decision and felt it was caught behind. The initial decision of the third umpire stood and Rajkumar survived. He went on to score 39 runs from just 22 balls including one four and four sixes to help his side post 120 despite getting all out with five balls left in the innings.
Ashwin took two wickets, conceded 26 runs from his full quota of four overs including one maiden. He also had the last laugh as Dindigul Dragons chased down the total with six wickets in hand and 31 balls to spare.
Ashwin wanted them to see from different angle
After the match, Ashwin was asked in the post-match presentation about why he reviewed the decision to which he said, “DRS is new in the tournament. There was a spike just before the ball passed the bat. I was not quite happy, I thought they'd see with a different angle.”
Ashwin’s first appearance upon returning
This was Ashwin’s first competitive match after Rajasthan Royals’ (RR) last league stage match of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023. Ashwin travelled to England for World Test Championship (WTC) 2023 final but the no.1 ICC Test bowler was benched. Eventually, Australia won the final by 209 runs and the team management were criticised for the controversial call.
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