I think players will take time to pick Murugan Ashwin: Sourav Ganguly

Rising Pune Supergiants made their Indian Premier League (IPL) debut playing the opening match of the IPL 2016 against defending champions Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Tamil Nadu leg-spinner Murugan Ashwin also played his first match in the league. A lot of eyes were on him since he bagged a healthy sum at the auction from the RPS and he had the tag of the mystery spinner on him.

It was a great game for Pune and the lesser known Ashwin bowled his four overs and picked a wicket as well. Former Indian skipper Sourav Ganguly in an exclusive chat with IndiaToday said, “M Ashwin is not a bad find for Pune this season. He is probably one of the mystery bowlers and I think players will take a little bit of time to pick him,”

“That’s the way IPL works. Most of the players get in the team right before the start of the tournament. It’s not a problem. The thing is that they keep playing around the world.

“As I have earlier, Pune are a serious side. Kevin Pietersen is a terrific buy for Pune. He was exceptional. He was not under any pressure today because the opening stand and the low total didn’t put much pressure on him. They look a good side to be honest,” he said.

Sourav who was a top order batsman himself didn’t agree with the MI team management’s decision to send in Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya at number 3. Dada said, “Rohit doesn’t need to panic. They are a good side. However, having Pandya at No. 3 is not a better option. He should instead come in at No. 6 because he is not technically that sound but he can hit ball a long way. So, he would like the ball to get old a bit and then hit through the line.”

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