Ravichandran Ashwin opts for a diplomatic answer on Ravi Shastri's appointment

Recently, cricket once again proved why it’s the most unpredictable sport, and why, you can never rule out the minnows. Not many would have expected Zimbabwe to win the series against Sri Lanka, that too not in their backyard. But that happened, and it came as a warning for the better ranked ODI sides, that no team can be taken lightly. Indian spin spearhead Ravichandran Ashwin, speaking about Zimbabwe’s heroic win, said that such are the games that make cricket interesting and keep it healthy.

Reflecting on Sri Lanka’s loss, Ashwin pointed out the unpredictable nature of cricket, in which the winner and loser can never be pre-decided. He also said that just like Zimbabwe, Afghanistan too may cause a similar upset against another higher-ranked ODI team. Ashwin was addressing the media at a promotional event of Quitas Bank for which he is the brand ambassador.

“With regard to Zimbabwe winning over Sri Lanka, that’s how the game goes, anybody can lose, anybody can win. Tomorrow Afghanistan may beat someone, so that’s the way the sport needs to (go). It is very healthy for the game,” he said.

No comments on Shastri’s appointment 

Team India will soon tour Sri Lanka for three Tests, five ODIs and a T20 with a new set of coaching staff. He was also with the team during the Champions Trophy when a rift between Virat Kohli and Anil Kumble was reported. However, when Ashwin was asked to give his comments on Ravi Shastri’s appointment as Kumble’s successor, the Tamil Nadu spinner minced words.

“I think, the new coach or the new support staff, it does not come under my jurisdiction, it is not something I will take a call on. I am not being diplomatic, it will be unfair for me to pass a comment on that. Likewise always, the Indian team moves on, India moves on (and) we have to find out in course of time, how it is going,” said Ashwin.