Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin criticised England captain Ben Stokes for his stance on injury replacements in Test cricket. His remarks came after Chris Woakes was seen batting with one arm in a sling during the final Test at The Oval. Ashwin suggested that Stokes should be more thoughtful before making such statements.
Earlier, after the Manchester Test where Rishabh Pant batted with a fractured foot, Ben Stokes had dismissed the idea of allowing injury substitutes in Tests, calling such discussions “ridiculous.” In contrast, India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir supported the use of substitutes in cases of serious injuries.
While reviewing the final Test at The Oval on his Hindi YouTube channel Ash Ki Baat, Ashwin addressed the issue and indirectly took a jab at Stokes for his earlier comments. According to The Times of India, he said:
“What you sow is what you reap. At Old Trafford, after Rishabh Pant’s injury, the press conference included questions about injury substitution. Gautam Gambhir had said that injuries like these warrant substitutions. Immediately after, the same question was asked to Ben Stokes and he said, ‘It’s absolutely a joke.’”
“I’m a big fan of Ben Stokes. I admire his attitude. But you need to think before you speak,” the 38-year-old went on to add.
Ashwin Applauds Injured Chris Woakes For Gritty Effort At The Oval
While questioning Stokes’ stance on injury replacements in Test cricket, Ravichandran Ashwin also appreciated Chris Woakes for bravely stepping out to bat at The Oval despite his serious injury. He remarked:
“Chris Woakes walked out with his shoulder tucked into his sweater and gave it his all to help the team win. He almost did it. He was running, showing immense game awareness. Hats off to Chris Woakes – remarkable attitude, remarkable fight, putting his body on the line.”
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