Ravichandran Ashwin is a potential leader, feels Sunil Gavaskar

Ravichandran Ashwin probably got the biggest compliment of his two-year-old international career when former Indian Test batsman and opener Sunil Gavaskar said the Tamil Nadu off-spinner had the potential to lead India one day. Speaking to NDTV on Ashwin's 92 not out on Day 2 of the Eden Gardens Test on Thursday, Gavaskar said: "He is industrious, works hard, wants to get better every day and is a potential leader." (Read Day 2 report)

Ashwin, who took 2 for 52 in West Indies' first innings, came good with the bat at a time when India were recovering from 83 for five. Together with Rohit Sharma, who scored a majestic 127 not out on debut, Ashwin scored a 198-run stand to give India a healthy 120-run lead by close of play. Ashwin is eight runs shy of his second Test hundred and Gavaskar lauded the 27-year-old for his attitude and effort. (Stats)

"His first Test century also came against West Indies from a similar situation and once again he has shown his ability with the bat. He has handled pressure really well and apart from his bowling he really works hard on his batting. He has actually created an opportunity for him to bat higher in the order," said Gavaskar. (Day 2 in pictures)

Sharma and Ashwin will start Day 3 on Friday. Gavaskar feels a lead in excess of 250 will be good for India. "Eden may not see Sachin Tendulkar bat for a second time," said Gavaskar. Playing his 199th and penultimate Test, Tendulkar was LBW to off-spinner Shane Shillingford for 10. "He played the wrong line and failed to pick the bowler," said Gavaskar. (Also read: Rohit Sharma's career turned for better after he became Mumbai Indians captain, says Gavaskar)