India’s disappointing performance on Day 1 of the ICC World Test Championship 2023 final against Australia raised questions about the team management’s decision to drop Ravichandran Ashwin and opt for Shardul Thakur in his place. Indian bowling coach, Paras Mhambrey, sheds light on the factors that influenced this critical decision.
The Strategy: Considering the Morning Conditions and Previous Performances
Acknowledging the difficulty of dropping a champion bowler like Ashwin, Mhambrey explains that the team’s choice was driven by a careful evaluation of the morning conditions. The additional seamer was seen as a beneficial addition, as it had previously yielded favorable results. Mhambrey points to the success of the four-seamer strategy in the previous Test match, highlighting the exceptional performance by the pace bowlers.
While recognizing Ashwin’s world-class abilities, Mhambrey emphasizes that decisions are made with the team’s best interests in mind. He affirms that discussions on team composition take into account various factors, including pitch conditions. Mhambrey stresses that players, including Ashwin, understand and respect decisions made for the collective benefit of the team.
Criticism and Voices of Concern
The exclusion of Ravichandran Ashwin for the sixth consecutive Test in England has sparked criticism from former cricketers Ricky Ponting and Sunil Gavaskar. They argue that spin opportunities are likely to arise on Day 4 and 5 of the Test, suggesting that Ashwin’s skills could have been advantageous. The decision to rest the ace spinner has prompted discussions and raised concerns about the team’s potential in utilizing spin on crucial days of the match.
Looking ahead, Mhambrey expresses confidence in the Indian seamers’ ability to excel in the upcoming sessions. With the onus on the batsmen to provide a strong start and gradually close the gap on Australia’s total, the team remains focused on its objectives. Mhambrey’s outlook remains positive, highlighting the importance of a collective effort and the team’s determination to bounce back.
