Former Pakistan cricketer Mushtaq Mohammad feels India should include off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin in the playing XI for the remaining test matches against England. In the first two Tests, India went in with the combination of four pacers and a spinner. Shardul Thakur was the fourth pacer in the first test. However, after an injury ruled him out, Ishant Sharma made a comeback in the squad.
Speaking to Telegraph, Mushtaq Mohammad said that India could have afforded to play three pacers and add Ravichandran Ashwin to the team.
Can’t agree more!! #testcricket #forever https://t.co/CskIL401wx
— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) August 16, 2021
“It might sound stupid but India could have done with three pacers… Ashwin should have played simply because he is a match-winner. He gives extra leverage to the side when the ball is turning. India should include him in the XI because the ball will turn after three days. One pacer can then sit out,” Mushtaq said.
Ravichandran Ashwin will provide the perfect balance: Mushtaq Mohammad
The former Pakistan cricketer further added that Ashwin provides the perfect balance for the team as he can contribute even with the bat. He also asserted that Jadeja’s performance has been disappointed in the series so far. Mushtaq said:
“Ashwin will provide the perfect balance. Jadeja has to work on his bowling. He is giving away too many full-length and half-volleys making it easier for the batsmen… His batting is good and he brings positive energy on the field but his bowling is neither here nor there… Not acceptable in Test matches.”
“Ashwin can be an important part of India’s game plan. He can also bat well, better than Ishant. I would always play two spinners at this time of the year. You have to be able to turn the ball on spinning wickets. Jadeja is disappointing and Ashwin must play,” he concluded.