Spin ace Ravichandran Ashwin stated that India shouldn’t feel any pressure to make a comeback in the second ODI of the ongoing three-match series in Australia. After losing the opener, the Men in Blue face a must-win situation to stay in contention. However, Ashwin firmly asserted that the focus should be on long-term preparation for the 2027 ODI World Cup rather than immediate results.
He emphasized that such bilateral series should be treated as opportunities to experiment, refine strategies, and enhance overall team performance.
“There is no pressure on India. We are just making this pressure. In my view, these ODI games are only happening on two fronts. We need two fast bowlers who will travel to South Africa. They are fixed. I think it will be Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj.”
“The third seamer could be Arshdeep. The selection battle is between Harshit and Prasidh, or someone could come in from the outside, depending on the IPL. Kuldeep Yadav is fixed. The other conundrum is if they want to look at Varun,” he said on ‘Ash ki Baat’.
“The second one is whether Rohit and Kohli will get to the 2027 World Cup. Otherwise India should just see to experiment in these bilateral series. In terms of combination and upgrading their skill,” he added.
“India Can Beat Australia” – R Ashwin Confident Ahead Of Remaining ODIs
Ravichandran Ashwin backed India to beat Australia in the second ODI on October 23, urging focus on quality cricket and World Cup preparation, while hoping Rohit and Kohli regain form.
“If the conditions and rain stays away and the toss is not a big factor, India has enough to get past this Australian team. The mindset should only be to try and play excellent cricket, get out of your comfort zone, get past everything and prepare for the World Cup. I would want Rohit and Kohli to get to form. That should be the priority. Do whatever it takes,” he said.
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