Ravichandran Ashwin might play early part of Ranji Trophy for Tamil Nadu

India’s ace off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin might be available for Ranji Trophy 2017-18 season opener for his state side on October 6. The season is all set to commence as Tamil Nadu will lock horns with Andhra Pradesh at Chepauk. Ashwin is currently in England representing Worcestershire in County cricket and is having a fruitful season with both bat and ball. He scored 82 in the ongoing game against Durham and also scalped Paul Collingwood with a beauty while bowling.

The all-rounder is expected to be back from his County stint on October 1. If he is not chosen for the T20I series against New Zealand starting on October 7, then he might feature in the opening game of the Ranji Trophy season. Also, the ODI series against the same country is slated to begin on October 22, so there is enough window for him to prepare for that series as well if he is picked. In case, the selectors opt for the wrist spinners again, he might be available for more domestic games.

Big boost for Tamil Nadu

The inclusion of the 31-year-old in the squad would be a big boost for the home side as well. The top official of Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) said that if Ashwin is available then they are hopeful of him turning out for his state team.

“We are hopeful that he would play if he is available. He did play in the inaugural TNPL in 2016 immediately upon arriving from the West Indies tour. If he plays, then it will be a big boost for TN,” the official said as quoted by Cricbuzz.

R Ashwin was also picked for the quarter-final against Karnataka in Visakhapatnam last year but was ruled out due to a sports hernia. The Indian off-spinner had bowled a lot of overs in the mega home season for his Test side and hence has been rested since from most of the limited overs matches. The Tamil Nadu squad for the upcoming season is expected to be selected in a couple of days’ time.