Former Indian cricket team spin maestro, Harbhajan Singh, has expressed his firm belief that Ravichandran Ashwin should be among the top choices in the bowling lineup for the team captained by Rohit Sharma.
In light of the impending ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, Harbhajan Singh contends that the team management should seriously contemplate including Ashwin in the squad.
Ashwin’s selection for the World Cup stirred a range of reactions among cricket enthusiasts and pundits alike. His return to the One Day International (ODI) format was marked by a commendable performance in the series against Australia, where he managed to secure four crucial wickets in just two matches.
This comeback was particularly significant as Ashwin was called upon to fill the void left by the injured Axar Patel, who was ruled out of the World Cup due to an injury sustained during the Asia Cup 2023.
Harbhajan Singh, sharing his insights on ESPNCricinfo, unequivocally stated, “If I was the captain of the team or a part of the management, my choice of the top five bowlers would unquestionably include Ashwin, placing him as the first or second option.”
In the wake of Axar Patel’s unfortunate injury, the Indian team had to make a pivotal decision between Ashwin and Washington Sundar. Ultimately, the selectors opted for the seasoned off-spinner, Ashwin, a decision that Harbhajan wholeheartedly endorses.
Harbhajan Singh’s endorsement of Ashwin’s inclusion underscores the wealth of experience and the skill set that Ashwin brings to the table, making a strong case for his vital role in India’s quest for World Cup glory in 2023 after a long 12 years.
Team India commences its ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 campaign on the 8th October vs Australia in Chennai. After that, the big match against arch-rival Pakistan is scheduled on the 14th of October.
