New Delhi. Indian off-spinner R Ashwin, who is ranked number two in the ICC Test rankings, did not get a chance in the first three matches of the ongoing five-match Test series against England. Even on the eve of the fourth match, it is not clear whether he will be able to play in the match to be held at Kennington Oval in London, as Team India’s bowling coach Bharat Arun has said that a decision on him will be taken before the match.
Bharat Arun, while addressing a virtual press conference on the eve of the match, said in response to a question, “Ashwin is without a doubt one of our best bowlers and it is unfortunate that he hasn’t played till now, but If an opportunity arises and if we feel that he is fit and part of the scheme of things, not only Ashwin, but Ravindra Jadeja also play with him.” The fourth test match is starting from today i.e. 2nd September.
The bowling coach of the Indian team has further said that Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja can get a chance in the fourth Test if the pitch at The Oval remains regular. Talking to the media, he spoke about Ravindra Jadeja’s injury and said, “The scan done of Jadeja is a general precaution scan. He took a photo wearing a hospital dress, which showed this big case. Jadeja is fit.”
Arun said that the team management will decide on giving Jadeja and Ashwin a chance together after seeing the pitch. “It depends on the environment and other things. There is no doubt that Ashwin is the best bowler,” Arun said. Usually the pitch of the Oval is helpful for the spin bowlers. Even the England team has many left-handed batsmen whom Ashwin can trouble with his off-spin.
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