'He has won a lottery' - Reetinder Singh Sodhi feels Ravi Ashwin's ODI comeback is a 'new lifeline' for him

Spin bowling great Ravichandran Ashwin was included in the Indian ODI squad for the three-match ODI series against South Africa. And, former Indian all-rounder Reetinder Singh Sodhi feels that Ashwin literally won a ‘lottery’ by once again returning back to the ODI scheme of things.

Adding that he felt Ashwin’s career in ODI cricket was over, Sodhi opined that Ashwin has got a new lifeline in his career.

“Ashwin has won a lottery here. It felt his career was almost over, that he might announce his retirement; he has got a new lifeline. He is a performer; he has experience on his side,” said Sodhi as quoted by News18.

The selectors have shown faith in Ravi Ashwin’s experience: Reetinder Singh Sodhi

Reetinder Singh Sodhi further said that the Indian selectors, as well as head coach Rahul Dravid have trusted Ashwin’s experience, and concluded by stating that the selectors have made the right call as the ODI series against South Africa will not be an easy one for India.

“Rahul Dravid, the team management, and the selectors have shown faith in his experience. It is right as well because this tour is not that easy,” concluded Sodhi.

Ravichandran Ashwin has appeared in 111 ODI matches for the Indian side and has scalped 150 wickets at an average of 32.91. He last played an ODI match for the ‘Men in Blue’ in the year 2017.

India’s three-match ODI series against South Africa is scheduled to start on 19th January 2022, with the first rubber slated to be played at Paarl. The 2nd and 3rd ODI matches of the series will be played on 21st January and 23rd January respectively.