In a candid discussion, veteran Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin shared his predictions for India’s upcoming Test series against South Africa in November. Ashwin believes that fast bowling sensation Jasprit Bumrah will likely be rested, while spin all-rounder Axar Patel is expected to secure a spot in India’s playing eleven. This crucial two-Test series against the reigning World Test Championship holders will take place in Kolkata and Guwahati, following India’s white-ball commitments in Australia.
During his popular YouTube show, ‘Ash ki Baat,’ Ashwin delved deep into the upcoming series. He emphasized India’s wealth of all-rounder options, which could provide significant tactical advantages. Conversely, Ashwin pointed out a potential vulnerability for South Africa: their limited resources in the spin bowling department.
Ashwin elaborated, “Axar Patel will definitely play. When South Africa visits, I anticipate a much tougher challenge. They are the World Test Championship titleholders, and they will bring a significantly higher level of competition. However, South Africa still lacks numerous quality spin options. To win in India, a team needs strong batting capable of extended stays at the crease, coupled with disciplined spin bowling to maintain pressure. From what I observe, South Africa seems somewhat deficient in their spin department.”
The experienced 106-Test cricketer further discussed India’s versatile bowling attack and how it might influence the team’s lineup for the upcoming series.
“We’re yet to see how their batsmen will perform against us. But India truly has an embarrassment of riches when it comes to player selection. We have a plethora of all-rounders. If we field players like Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja, we’d also bring in Kuldeep Yadav. This depth extends our batting lineup all the way to number 10. Considering the workload, I believe Jasprit Bumrah will be rested for the series against South Africa,” Ashwin revealed.
Ashwin then turned his attention to KL Rahul, offering high praise for his recent batting display and refined technique. He specifically admired Rahul’s knack for making challenging scoring situations look deceptively easy.
He continued, “I’ve always felt that KL Rahul has a unique ability to make difficult runs seem effortless. I’m incredibly pleased that he rediscovered this aspect of his game. Rahul possesses such natural quality and class that he could easily get dismissed in a match where things aren’t flowing, but he didn’t give in. He persevered and masterfully converted that opportunity into a century.”
Ashwin concluded by expressing strong optimism about Rahul’s future performances, impressed by his current stellar form.
“For the sake of KL Rahul’s career and the immense talent he possesses, I genuinely hope that this current phase marks the beginning of his second or even third ‘wing,’ a new, elevated period in his cricketing journey,” Ashwin passionately stated.
The seasoned cricketer underscored the profound significance of Rahul’s recent century, highlighting its critical value for the Indian team’s prospects.
“I truly believe he is poised for a powerful finish to this period of his career. His form appears exceptional, his fitness is top-notch, and it’s clear he has a deep understanding of his own game. Crucially, he demonstrates immense hunger. This particular century isn’t just a reflection of KL Rahul’s individual performance; it serves to redefine KL Rahul, the batsman, and his integral role within the Indian team,” Ashwin asserted.
In conclusion, the forthcoming series against South Africa presents a formidable challenge for India, who will be confronting the reigning World Test Championship titleholders on their home turf. Both strategic team selection and well-planned game strategies will be paramount in determining the results of these highly anticipated Test encounters.