'Ravichandran Ashwin was nice enough to call me just a while ago' - Laxman Sivaramakrishnan reveals unexpected turn amidst controversy

Former India spinner Laxman Sivaramakrishnan launched a series of scathing attacks on off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin ahead of the upcoming ODI World Cup. The 57-year-old recently pointed out a fault in Ashwin’s bowling action and asked the Chennai-born cricketer to correct it in order to help the national team win their third world title in the 50-overs format.

However, the former cricketer went on to add a few more controversial statements saying that the pitches in India are doctored for Ashwin to succeed and that he is a ‘selfish stats player’. He eventually engaged with a lot of fans on X and even called them out saying that Ashwin pays them to speak on his behalf. Sivaramakrishnan eventually mentioned that the 36-year-old called him to talk about his bowling action and clarified that the fans are no way connected to him.

“Ravi Ashwin was nice enough to call me just a while ago to discuss his bowling action, he was as shocked with the venom of the trolls as I was. Also clarified that the people involved are in NO WAY connected to him. GOOD LUCK Ravichandran Ashwin.  Do us proud,” Sivaramakrishnan posted.

Ravi Ashwin was nice enough to call me just a while ago to discuss his bowling action, he was as shocked with the venom of the trolls as I was . Also clarified that the people involved are in NO WAY connected to him. GOOD LUCK @ashwinravi99 Do us proud.

— Laxman Sivaramakrishnan (@LaxmanSivarama1) September 30, 2023

Notably, Ashwin recently replaced the injured Axar Patel in India’s ODI World Cup squad. The off-spinner was part of India’s squad in the recently concluded series against Australia and he bowled brilliantly to earn his spot in the mega tournament. He was also part of India’s successful campaign in 2011 and hence, has the experience of playing in major tournaments. 

On the other hand, India’s warm-up game against England was called off due to rain. Next up, the Men in Blue will be taking on the Netherlands but rain can once again play a spoilsport. Hence, India’s practice sessions may very well be limited until their opening game against Australia at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Meanwhile, since the surface in Chennai often assists the spinners, Ashwin may very well find a spot in the playing XI.