Ravichandran Ashwin is one of India’s greatest match-winners in Test cricket, known for his incredible skills and strategic mind. In ‘I Have the Streets: A Kutti Cricket Story’, Ashwin, along with co-author Sidharth Monga, provides an in-depth look at his journey from a health-challenged child to a cricketing legend.
Ashwin’s early life, marked by health struggles and the unwavering support of his middle-class family, forms the bedrock of this narrative. The book delves into the everyday joys and challenges of growing up in a cricket-obsessed neighbourhood, offering readers an authentic glimpse into his formative years.
One of the book’s most compelling aspects is its exploration of Ashwin’s mindset on and off the field. Known for his articulate and thoughtful nature, Ashwin’s reflections provide valuable insights into what drives a champion sportsman. His musings on the dynamics between bowlers and batters, and his own evolution from a batter who bowled seam-up to a renowned off-spinner, are particularly enlightening.
The book is also peppered with memorable quotes, such as: “Worship your heroes from a distance; when you get close to them, be good enough to be one of them.”
Another one: “Bowlers are used as blue-collar workers by batters as they wish. Why is it that a bowler apologises to a batter in the nets if he bowls a bad ball and not the batter if he plays a bad shot? When batters want to practise their big hitting, they slog every ball, no matter what the bowler is bowling. On those days, the bowler can’t say it is annoying because he isn’t getting the practice he wants. It’s the same lab for everyone. If the batter is allowed to play weird shots all day, the bowler should also be allowed to work on different things. I can actually practise without a batter, but the batter needs me. So, he owes it to me not to be annoyed when I am trying something new. I don’t want to make you, but want to get better. It’s not like I’m only here to make you better.”
These quotes encapsulate Ashwin’s critical and introspective views, highlighting the often-unseen struggles and dynamics of the sport.
Ashwin’s narrative is far from a self-proclamation. Instead, it is a grateful homage to those who have supported him, especially his parents and his grandfather (Thatha). His humility and gratitude shine through, making the reader feel a deep connection to him.
Overall, ‘I Have the Streets’ is not just a memoir of a cricketer, but a manual for anyone aspiring to achieve greatness in sports. It offers practical insights for young off-spinners, coaches and captains, emphasising the importance of skill development and mindset.
This book is highly recommended for sports lovers, young cricketers and anyone interested in the personal journey of a cricketing great. It will undoubtedly inspire and educate readers, helping them understand what it takes to succeed at the highest levels of the game.
For another interesting read :
An all-Indian coaching staff for Team India has been the norm over the last seven-eight years, and it is widely believed that T Dilip is the best man for the fielding coach job. @shamik100 ✍️https://t.co/4NsTy2Z757
— RevSportz Global (@RevSportzGlobal) July 12, 2024
For more sports content: https://revsportz.in/