Guess who’s back in ODI contention? It’s none other than Ravi Ashwin, and cricket enthusiasts are in for a delightful surprise! He’s made a stunning comeback into the Indian squad, and fans are finding it hard to contain their excitement. The action is all set to kick off on September 22, 2023, with the Australia series being India’s final tune-up before the World Cup. Social media is buzzing, and it’s all anyone can talk about.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) dropped a bombshell by revealing not one but two squads. KL Rahul is stepping up as the captain for the first two ODIs, while heavyweights like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, and Kuldeep Yadav are taking a well-deserved break. But wait for it – they’re making a grand return for the third ODI, the final showdown before the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.
Mark your calendars because the series is going to be hosted in three vibrant cities: Mohali, Indore, and Rajkot, on September 22, 24, and 27, respectively. Meanwhile, Australia aren’t ones to keep secrets; they’ve already spilled the beans on their tour rosters.
Peeking into the Indian squad for the first two ODIs against Australia, we see Ashwin and Washington Sundar back in action. The roster also welcomes Ruturaj Gaikwad and Tilak Varma into the mix. And don’t forget the batting powerhouse featuring the likes of Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, and Shubman Gill.
Now, let’s talk about the bowling. Ravindra Jadeja is taking on the role of vice-captain for the first two ODIs, while leading the spin brigade. And when it comes to pace, there’s a strong lineup that includes Mohammed Siraj, Mohammad Shami, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, and Prasidh Krishna.
But here’s the cliffhanger: Can Ashwin stage a jaw-dropping comeback after a considerable absence from the ODI arena? His journey began with a bang in 2010, but a slump hit in 2017 with the emergence of spin sensations like Kuldeep and Yuzvendra Chahal. Since 2016, he’s been part of just 11 ODIs, clinching nine wickets.
In the last six years, Ashwin’s bat made an appearance only in two ODIs, and the lone wicket came in January 2022 against South Africa. His return to the Indian ODI side against Australia just before the World Cup has taken everyone by surprise.
The cricketing world is on the edge of its seats, eagerly awaiting Ashwin’s performance in this series, as it could be the deciding factor in his World Cup destiny. Cricket enthusiasts worldwide are torn between seeing this as a game-changing move or an unexpected twist in the story.
One thing’s for sure – the excitement is palpable, and we can’t wait to see whether Ashwin’s return to the ODI squad turns out to be a stroke of genius or a curveball.
Regardless, it’s breathed new life into the sport we love.