Star off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has been named in India’s 15-member ODI World Cup squad replacing Axar Patel, who couldn’t recover from a quadriceps injury in time, for the tournament.
The official announcement by the International Cricket Council on Thursday confirmed that Axar Patel unfortunately had to withdraw from the squad due to his persistent quadriceps injury. This opened up an opportunity for the experienced all-rounder Ashwin to join the team.
Ashwin’s inclusion comes after he impressed during the ODI series against Australia. He played in both matches held in Mohali and Indore. In the second ODI, Ashwin showcased his bowling skills by taking 3 wickets for 41 runs in seven overs, making a significant contribution to India’s commanding 99-run victory.
This will be Ashwin’s appearance in an ODI World Cup for India, as he was previously part of the 15-man squad that won the 2011 edition held in the subcontinent. However, he was noticeably missing from the 2019 ODI World Cup in England. India decided to rely on a combination of wrist spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal, along with finger spinner Ravindra Jadeja’s expertise, to handle the conditions prevailing in England.
Ashwin’s comeback to the ODI World Cup team brings experience and strengthens India’s bowling lineup. Fans are eagerly anticipating his performance on the stage.