'I believe Ashwin is better than Shardul Thakur' - Krishnamachari Srikkanth pushes for Ashwin over Thakur in second Test against South Africa

In the lead-up to the second Test against South Africa, former Indian cricketer Krishnamachari Srikkanth advocated for Ravichandran Ashwin's inclusion in India's playing XI, even if Ravindra Jadeja returned. Ashwin featured in the first Test due to Jadeja's back spasm but with Jadeja back in training, the dilemma arose. In Centurion, Ashwin emerged as India's most economical bowler as he conceded only 41 runs in 19 overs and secured just one wicket.

Srikkanth proposed Ashwin's selection over Shardul Thakur as he emphasised the spin duo's potential to create pressure on the Proteas batters. Despite India opting for a four-man pace attack in the opening Test, the former India opener suggested that Ashwin could team up effectively with Jadeja as he can deliver economical spells and pose challenges for the South African lineup in the upcoming Cape Town Test.

“I will still play Ashwin. I believe Ashwin is better than Shardul Thakur. I will play Ashwin in place of Shardul. Even if he doesn’t pick up five-wicket hauls, he will pick up a couple (of wickets). Probably, he will combine well with Jadeja and bowl tight lines. These two can work together and pick up 4-5 wickets, you never know. That should be enough, he would have done his job,” Srikkanth said on his YouTube Channel.

It’s unfair to drop anyone after their debut: Srikkanth

Notably, the second and final Test is scheduled to start from January 3, in Cape Town. In the same vein, Team India might consider alterations in their Playing XI with an aim for a series equalizer. Reflecting on the team dynamics, the 64-year-old emphasised the need for fairness and advocated against Prasidh Krishna's immediate exclusion after one game. However, concerns were raised regarding Thakur's suitability, indicating a potential change in the Indian lineup ahead of the crucial second encounter.

“If at all you are going to make their batters struggle, you do have an opportunity with your spinners. You can beat them in flight, you can try something like that. I will drop Shardul Thakur. Prasidh Krishna, if you drop him now, it’s unfair. He has played one Test only. It’s unfair to drop anyone after their debut. Shardul Thakur does not fit the bill,” Srikkanth concluded.