'Only reason why he is not in the team is because of his fielding' - Amit Mishra offers insight on R Ashwin's ODI comeback

Ravichandran Ashwin's surprise selection in the ODI squad and potential inclusion in the World Cup squad has surprised many fans and experts alike. After winning the Asia Cup 2023, India are all set to play a three-match series against the Aussies to fine-tune their preparations before the ODI World Cup 2023.

The unexpected call-up came after spin all-rounder Axar Patel's injury during the Asia Cup tournament. Ashwin last donned the ODI jersey back in January 2022 during the South Africa tour. His absence in the format over the last six years had raised eyebrows, leaving fans and experts wondering why he had been kept on the sidelines.

Amit Mishra, an expert with JioCinema & Sports18, offered some insights into Ashwin's exclusion. Mishra lauded Ashwin as a quality bowler and a wicket-taker but emphasised the unique demands of ODI cricket. Unlike T20 matches, an ODI requires a player to bowl for 10 overs, field for 40 overs, and potentially contribute with the bat.

Mishra opined that Ashwin's fielding skills and right-handed batting set him apart from his left-handed counterparts like Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja. He suggested that Ashwin had been selected primarily as a wicket-taking option in case of a spinner's injury, given his proficiency as an off-spinner.

"Ashwin is undoubtedly a quality bowler and a wicket-taker, but remember this is not a 20-over game. It is of 50 overs. You have to bowl for 10 overs and field for 40 overs and might have to bat as well. No doubt he has been around for so long, has been a wicket-taker as well, but there is that matter of fielding as well and that is why a young player might be picked," Mishra said.

The upcoming India vs. Australia series will be a test for Ashwin. The team management aims to assess whether he still possesses the ability to take wickets in the ODI format. 

Aside from Ashwin, the presence of Washington Sundar adds another layer of complexity to the spin-bowling all-rounder options. Mishra pointed out that the choice between Ashwin and Sundar would depend on pitch conditions. If the wicket favours spin, Ashwin might get the nod, while Sundar's fielding prowess could come into play on other surfaces.

"Indian team will be looking at how Ashwin will be bowling against Australia, and to assess if he still has the wicket-taking abilities in this format. The only reason why he is not in the team is because of his fielding and right-handed batting ability."

"It will depend on the wicket. If the wicket is dry, Ashwin will be picked or else Sundar, who gives the edge with his fielding abilities as well," he added.