Former Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin has questioned the Indian batter’s approach after the series loss against South Africa. India was given a 408-run hammering by the Proteas at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati on Wednesday.
Ashwin highlighted that Indian batters showed zero intent in their defense in the second innings. Barring Ravindra Jadeja, who scored 54 runs, none of the Indian batters could show any resistance. Sai Sudharsan scored 14 runs after facing 139 balls but he adopted a dead-bat approach and was dismissed on a full-length delivery.
Ravichandran Ashwin said on his YouTube Channel, “It usually happens that when something goes wrong, there is always a scapegoat. But I don’t consider it as a healthy team environment, it’s not a healthy facet. For instance, if I know that there are question marks about my place, I will want to fight and prove my place. I felt let down in the sense that there was no fight. If a player is insecure, he cannot play well. When Senuran Muthusamy came on to bowl, Sai Sudharsan didn’t put away any of the full tosses or short balls for boundaries. He played inside the line and got caught at first slip. There was zero intent in defense. It’s either technical or tactical.”
Reflecting on how India can improve, Ashwin urged the batters to play on spin-friendly pitches in the domestic circuit so that they are ready for the International level.
“How we can improve is, many people will have their opinions. I feel first-class cricket needs to be better, start playing on turning pitches and make defense solid against spin. A spin and fast-bowling cupboard needs to be readied. IPL performances are being considered but performances for Test exclusively must be considered.”
“Ranji Trophy winners can be given preference. Performance is second but those wanting to stay in the fight must be backed. Attitude brings out performances. My thought process is attitude first and game second. This is a position that Indian team has been in the past, it’s not new. What is the way forward must be looked upon,” he concluded.
India’s next assignment is the three-match Test series against South Africa.
