World Cup 2015: Ravichandran Ashwin is an Underrated Bowler, Says Ian Chappell
Ravichandran Ashwin has 12 wickets from six games in the 2015 World Cup. The in-form bowler's career-best figures of four for 25 also came during the tournament, against the United Arab Emirates.
Former Australia captain Ian Chappell is of the opinion that Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is not rated as highly as he deserves. Speaking exclusively to NDTV, Chappell said he was impressed by the way Ashwin has adjusted his variations during the ongoing ICC World Cup.(Ashwin Motivated and Innovative: Fleming)
"I love the way he has slowed his pace and cut down his variety," Chappell said.(Dhoni Praises Ashwin After Ireland Win)
Ashwin is among the top wicket-takers in the World Cup with 12 in six matches. His personal best was four for 25 against UAE. He is 10th on the overall list and second for India after Mohammed Shami who has 15 wickets.(Ashwin and the Art of Bowling in Australia)
The 28-year-old was picked by Chappell as one of his top-five bowlers of the tournament. The other four consisted of leading wicket-taker Mitchell Starc (16 wickets), Trent Boult, Tim Southee and Jerome Taylor.
Not only Chappell, former India batsman VVS Laxman also showered praises on the right-arm spinner. "Ashwin has bowled with aggression and looked to take wickets," Laxman told NDTV.
Ashwin has always maintained that he would not be intimidated by attacking batsmen. "I like to throw myself in the middle and try to see how much I can make an impact in that particular game. Be it Chris Gayle, AB de Villiers anybody. I look to get them out in the middle. Once you get them out, the game is going to clear the way," Ashwin had said ahead of West Indies clash.
Former New Zealand skipper and Chennai Super Kings coach Stephen Fleming had recently said that Ashwin was very innovative and a motivated cricketer.
"I have always been impressed with Ashwin as he is such a good student of the game with great work ethic. Look at the manner in which he creates a new delivery. He loves the game, thinks very hard and statistically motivated," said Fleming.
In the course of the tournament, Ashwin has provided important breakthroughs and his performance will be key to India's success later on in the World Cup.
The Men in Blue face Bangladesh in the quarters on March 19 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
(With inputs from PTI)