Ravichandran Ashwin hints at missing ODI series against Australia

Ace Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is currently plying his trade for County side Worcestershire in the County Championships. He was not named in the Indian side for the limited overs series against Sri Lanka. Hence, he opted to tour England and develop his game there. He had a decent start to his campaign with a 3-wicket haul and crucial cameo of 36 runs in his first outing.

Ashwin has a dominating record on the Indian soil but has failed to replicate it overseas. The last time Indian team toured England, he picked only 3 wickets in the 2 matches he played. Hence, he is keen on developing his skills in the English conditions. As per the recent reports, it seems that Ravichandran Ashwin will have an extended time in England.

He noted that he might be called back for the upcoming home ODI series against Australia. However, his words clearly indicated that he is yet to receive a word on the same from the BCCI. In case he does not get a call for the ODI series, he will continue to be available for Worcestershire in the season.

“I could be called to play in the Australia series. But I have indicated to Bumpy (Steve Rhodes, the Worcestershire direct of cricket) that I will be available for all four games. As of now, there are no communication channels (with BCCI) open, but they will be shortly, so I will probably get a clearer idea after the Sri Lanka series, It’s not just about next year,” quoted Ravichandran Ashwin.

“It’s always been a dream to play county cricket. I grew up watching it on TV in India and it has always meant a lot. Spinners have come before and told me it is a must-do experience. I was being rested from the (limited overs) series (against Sri Lanka), so I thought I might as well come here to get experience,” he added further.

England tour in mind

Speaking further on the same note, Ravichandran Ashwin admitted that he is keeping the 2018 India’s tour of England in his mind. The Indian team will be playing a long Test series in England. The last time they toured England, back in 2014, they were severely humiliated with a whitewash Test series defeat. Ashwin believes that his County stint will help him develop his skills in the English conditions.

“But yes, next year is in the back of my mind and in the back of the mind of the team management back home. With the pace with which the international cricket calendar is set-up, you don’t have a long time to prepare. That might even cost you a Test match. So these experiences can be banked upon and, if you can learn faster, which I pride myself upon, the results can come a bit faster,” conceded the ace Indian spinner.