Ashwin to play local one-day game before joining India squad

R Ashwin was recently spotted at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, practicing in the NCA nets with a white ball. Furthermore, he is scheduled to play a 50-over match in Chennai on Tuesday, in the local league of the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA). Despite his recall to the India ODI squad for the upcoming three-match series against Australia, the experienced spinner is diligently preparing himself for any potential scenarios.

In Chennai, the VAP Trophy’s one-day league is currently underway. Ashwin, 37, who has represented the country in 113 ODIs, including the victorious 2011 World Cup campaign, is set to take the field for Take Solution MRPA side at the SSN College Ground against Young Stars. He has also participated in several three-day games within the local league a few weeks ago.

A TNCA official stated, “He wants to spend some time on the ground, and a 50-over game will provide him with that opportunity. He recently visited the NCA for routine maintenance work on his body and to hone his skills under the guidance of spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule. He’s determined to prepare himself comprehensively for any and all challenges.”

During a media conference following the announcement of the India squad for the Australia series, Rohit Sharma was questioned about whether he was concerned that R Ashwin had only played two ODIs in the last six years. In response, the captain emphasized that the veteran off-spinner’s vast experience alleviated any concerns about his limited game time in the ODIs. Ashwin is determined to validate the trust placed in him by the captain, selectors, and team management. His most recent ODI appearance was in January 2022 against South Africa, and he has accumulated 151 wickets in 111 ODI innings.

The team has been instructed to convene in Chandigarh on September 20 in preparation for the first ODI, scheduled for September 22. Ashwin will have to fly to Mohali immediately after the game.