Ravichandran Ashwin, the seasoned off-spinner, is set to make his return to India’s One Day International (ODI) squad after a hiatus of 20 months. Ashwin has been named in the squad for the upcoming 3-match series against Australia, which is scheduled to commence in Mohali on Friday. His inclusion comes as a replacement for Axar Patel, who suffered a quadriceps injury during the Super Four game against Bangladesh, ruling him out of the Asia Cup final.

This marks Ashwin’s first ODI call-up since December 2021. Recently, he was seen undergoing training at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) under the guidance of chief VVS Laxman and spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule.

Before joining the national team in Mohali, Ashwin is expected to participate in a local 50-over game, representing the Take Solution MRPA side in the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) league at the SSN College Ground. He had previously played in several local three-day games a few weeks ago as part of his preparation.

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A TNCA official noted, “He wants to spend some time on the ground, and a 50-over game will provide him with that opportunity. He recently visited the NCA for routine maintenance work on his body and to hone his skills under the guidance of spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule. He’s determined to prepare himself comprehensively for any and all challenges.”

My kinda day 🤩🤩.

The capacity to learn is a gift.
The ability to learn is a skill. However, the willingness to learn is a CHOICE. #cricketlife
Thank you for the help @SairajBahutule @VVSLaxman281 pic.twitter.com/4nK7V5IthS

— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) September 15, 2023

It is reported that the Indian team management initially approached Ashwin when Axar Patel suffered his left quadriceps injury during the Asia Cup. However, Ashwin declined the offer as he was unable to prepare in such a short time frame. Consequently, the management turned to Washington Sundar, who swiftly joined the team in Sri Lanka and played in the final, contributing to India’s historic eighth Asia Cup title, despite not bowling or batting.

Despite Ashwin’s limited ODI appearances in the past six years, Indian captain Rohit Sharma expressed confidence in the veteran’s abilities. Rohit emphasized the wealth of experience Ashwin possesses, having played nearly 150 ODIs and close to 100 Tests. He stressed that Ashwin’s extensive experience and consistent participation in cricket, albeit not in ODIs for India, make him a valuable asset to the team.

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“With the kind of experience Ashwin has, he has played close to 100 Tests (94), close to 150 ODIs (113). Yes, it was all in the past, but he has been consistently playing Test cricket. With guys like Ashwin, having time on the ground is not so much of a concern, which is why we thought if he’s an option, we need to get him in. But with the kind of experience he has, for guys like him, it’s all in the head more than the body,” Rohit Sharma emphasized.

Ashwin’s return to the ODI squad is eagerly anticipated by fans and adds depth to India’s spinning options ahead of the series against Australia.