Why R Ashwin is Playing in the Adelaide Pink-Ball Test
Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India’s most experienced and versatile bowlers, has been included in the playing XI for the pink-ball Test in Adelaide. The decision comes as no surprise given his past performances at this venue and the strategic value he brings to the team. This article explores the reasons behind his inclusion, his recent form, and how the team combination has evolved for the game.
Ashwin’s Record at Adelaide
Success in 2020 Pink-Ball Test
Ashwin played a key role in the pink-ball Test in Adelaide in 2020, where he took 4 wickets in the first innings and helped bowl out Australia for 194. His performance gave India a 43-run lead despite the team’s infamous collapse to 36 all out in the second innings.
Key Wickets Taken:
- Steve Smith – Dismissed for just 1 run with a clever drifter that forced an edge to the slip.
- Travis Head – Caught and bowled after mistiming a shot.
- Cameron Green – Out for 11, falling victim to Ashwin’s sharp turn.
Ashwin’s ability to trouble top-order batsmen with his variations makes him a valuable asset on Adelaide’s pitch, which often offers assistance to spinners as the match progresses.
Why Ashwin Was Chosen for the Adelaide Test
Consistent Net Practice
Ashwin’s inclusion was bolstered by his consistent performances in the nets leading up to the match. Reports from training sessions revealed that he was in excellent rhythm, troubling batters with his control and variety.
Highlights from Practice Sessions:
- Bowled a stunning drifter to Nitish Reddy, drawing him forward and beating his edge.
- Turned up for an optional net session and focused on both bowling and batting.
These efforts highlighted Ashwin’s readiness and hunger to perform at the highest level.
Team Combination and Strategy
India’s team management considered several factors before including Ashwin:
- Batting Depth Not a Concern:
With the return of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill to the playing XI, and Nitish Reddy showing promise with the bat in previous games, India felt confident in their batting depth. This reduced the need for Washington Sundar’s additional batting capabilities. - Ashwin’s Experience and Skill:
Ashwin’s ability to exploit Adelaide’s conditions and his past success against key Australian players made him the obvious choice over Sundar. - Bowling Economy:
At Adelaide, Ashwin has an excellent economy rate of 2.64 in three matches, ensuring he can maintain pressure on the Australian batsmen while picking up wickets.
Ashwin’s Role in the Current Playing XI
Rohit Sharma’s Statement at the Toss
At the toss, Rohit Sharma confirmed three changes to the team:
- Shubman Gill replaced Devdutt Padikkal.
- Rohit Sharma returned to the lineup, batting in the middle order.
- Ashwin replaced Washington Sundar.
Rohit emphasized that Ashwin’s inclusion strengthens the bowling attack, particularly in the middle overs.
Strategic Value
Ashwin’s role is crucial in:
- Dismissing Australian Middle Order: Players like Steve Smith and Travis Head, who have struggled against Ashwin in the past, will again be his key targets.
- Maintaining Control: His ability to bowl long spells with tight lines will be vital in keeping Australia’s run rate in check.
India’s Playing XI for the Adelaide Test
Final Lineups
- India XI: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma (c), Rishabh Pant (wk), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Ravichandran Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana.
- Australia XI: Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland.
Expectations from Ashwin in This Match
Key Challenges
- Bowling to a Strong Australian Lineup: Players like Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith will test his skills.
- Delivering in Pressure Situations: With India looking to dominate in the pink-ball format, Ashwin’s experience will be crucial.
Opportunities
- Exploiting Adelaide Conditions: The pitch is expected to assist spinners in the later stages of the match.
- Building Partnerships: Ashwin’s batting ability adds depth to India’s lower order, potentially contributing valuable runs.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s inclusion in the playing XI for the Adelaide Test is a well-calculated decision based on his past performances, recent form, and the team’s strategic needs. With his proven track record at this venue and his ability to deliver under pressure, Ashwin is set to play a pivotal role in India’s quest for victory in the pink-ball Test.
