'Right thing to do' - R Ashwin defends Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli skipping West Indies, Ireland T20Is ahead of ODI World Cup

As the cricketing world gears up for the much-anticipated ODI World Cup 2023, India's star players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have taken a strategic step by opting out of T20I series. While some may question their absence from the shorter format, off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has come forth to back their decision.

Having not participated in T20 internationals since their defeat against England in the 2022 T20 World Cup, both Kohli and Rohit have been preparing themselves for the upcoming 50-over World Cup at home. Their absence from recent T20I contests against West Indies and Ireland has raised eyebrows, but Ashwin justified their actions.

“From 50 overs to 20 overs, there is a complete switch in mindset. Both of them skipping and getting ready for the 50-over World Cup is a good decision,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

Ashwin further emphasized that the vast experience of Kohli and Rohit, combined with their profound understanding of the game, explained their decision to skip T20Is.

“They are using their experience and want to concentrate on the 50-over World Cup, which is exactly the right thing to do,” he added.

While the spotlight remains set on the two senior batters, the Indian team is grappling with decisions regarding the middle order. With various players tried out for the position, the team management is striving to identify the best combination. The expected return of KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer, who underwent injuries during the Indian Premier League 2023, adds another layer of intrigue to the selection process.

On the bowling front, Ashwin expressed confidence in the team's capabilities. “We know the spinners as well. Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal. Axar Patel is a backup we have in the spinning all-rounder category. Siraj, Shami, and Bumrah,” he enumerated, revealing the depth of the bowling arsenal. Ashwin acclaimed Mohammed Siraj as the standout player for the upcoming World Cup, deeming him an “automatic pick.”