Away from the cheers, Ravichandran Ashwin prepares for his current task in Mumbai

31-year-old Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin was in Mumbai, the venue for the 1st ODI between India and New Zealand. But he wasn’t wearing the familiar blue, instead, he was seen rolling his arms along with his Tamil Nadu statemates. Approximately 20 kilometers from the Wankhede Stadium, the likes of Ashwin, Abhinav Mukund and the rest were seen practicing at the MCA Academy ground in Bandra Kurla Complex on Sunday.

Most of the passers-by were taken aback witnessing the ace spinner going about his business away from all the cheers and music. Ashwin was not named in the Indian squad for the 3-match ODI series against New Zealand. One of the finest match-winners with the ball for India in Test cricket, Ashwin missed the bus in the previous two occasions too ( He was excluded from the limited overs series against Sri Lanka and Australia).

Tamil Nadu are currently preparing for their Ranji Trophy Group C match against Mumbai, starting tomorrow. The visiting team’s coach Hrishikesh Kanitkar sounded happy to have the experienced campaigner by his side.

“It definitely helps us that he is playing for us. Especially for the players who want to play and learn, getting better every game. It is a blessing for us,” Kanitkar told DNA .

Ashwin’s attitude is amazing: Kanitkar

Kanitkar lauded Ashwin’s attitude and the way he prepares himself for each and every game irrespective of the format or division.”He is very dedicated. Since he joined he has been like this – completely dedicated on the ground. He likes to work on the field, try his variations or whatever he wants. He is a hands-on guy. After international success, his attitude in Ranji is amazing,” Kanitkar said.

“He is a positive person. He is someone who believes in doing what he can do, not worry about results. He knows even if things are out of his hands, he likes to keep it simple and bowl well to get wickets, no matter what is happening around him. He is only getting better,” the coach added.