IND vs AUS: The landscape of cricket is ever-evolving, with strategies and tactics that could be the norm one decade completely transforming in the next. The inclusion of Washington Sundar and Ravichandran Ashwin in the Indian ODI squad against Australia raised eyebrows and sparked conversations about the possibility of spinners opening the bowling with a new ball. Piyush Chawla, the veteran leg-spinner, has stepped into this debate, highlighting the cardinal role of fast bowlers in this context.
The Old Guard’s Stance:
During an insightful chat on ESPN Cricinfo, Chawla, when posed with the question about spinners wielding the new ball, shared his conventional viewpoint. He opined that in the ODI format, if a spinner is given the new ball, they should be looking to fetch wickets and not just curb the run-flow. He stressed the importance of not sidelining fast bowlers in the opening overs unless the pitch is offering substantial turn.
The Dilemma of Choice:
IND vs AUS: The Indian cricket team’s announcement for the upcoming World Cup 2023 was noteworthy for not featuring any off-spinner. The scenario altered when Akshar Patel succumbed to an injury during the Asia Cup, leading to Washington Sundar’s inclusion. Now, with the addition of Ashwin for the series against Australia, the selectors find themselves in a conundrum. It’s a tight rope to walk, deciding which of the two talented spinners would grace the field.
IND vs AUS Ashwin’s Awaited Comeback:
Ravichandran Ashwin’s name in the squad roster marks a significant moment, considering his long hiatus from the ODI format. The crafty spinner last donned the blue jersey in January 2022. As he gears up for the Australia series, all eyes will be on him. A stellar performance could very well be his ticket to the World Cup squad, emphasizing the stakes of this series.
IND vs AUS: This recent debate, brought to the fore by Chawla, underscores the evolving dynamics of the game. While the old-school cricketing fraternity might lean towards tried-and-tested methods, the modern game continues to push boundaries, constantly redefining how it’s played. Only time will tell which strategy India adopts in the high-voltage series against Australia.
