R Ashwin ready to challenge Sri Lanka with his off-spin

R Ashwin ready to challenge Sri Lanka with his off-spin: R Ashwin the Indian off-spinner, will play a key role in upcoming tour of Sri Lanka. Ashwin said he is ready to give his best. Speaking to the media prior to the departure, he said, “My off-spin will be the main battle weapon against the Lankan batsmen and the pitches there also offer a good bounce. We all know the strengths and weaknesses of players at the international level but everything depends on the playing situation.You get as close to the basics as possible. I try and innovate with my game. I keep giving this a shot – it sometimes turns fantastic and sometimes it is rubbish. I have utilized it pretty effectively.”

Ravichandran Ashwin’s record in the subcontinent has been much more impressive than his performances overseas. He has taken 100 wickets in 16 Test matches playing in the Indian sub-continent which is far better than the record of 24 wickets from 9 matches overseas. With a Test bowling average of 40, he expressed his capabilities to bat and that he is looking forward to be a prominent all-rounder for the country, “I love my batting. I look to contribute,” he said.

On being questioned about the pressure and critical remarks on not being able to take wickets, the off-spinner said, “I don’t read into accusations. They just want me to get better. That’s what I will do and I will keep getting better every day. I want to be the best Ashwin can be.

The Test series between India and Sri Lanka is to begin on the 12^th of August; Indian side will be led by the aggressive Virat Kohli. Spin is going to be the key to win the series, as the hosts were seen troubled by the slower bowlers in the last series against Pakistan.