We will try to avoid a 'Banglawash' says R Ashwin

We will try to avoid a ‘Banglawash’ says R Ashwin: India will be desperate to register their first win this series as they square off against Bangladesh in the 3^rd ODI tomorrow. Indian team will put their best efforts to avoid a 3-0 whitewash and further humiliation. There has been heavy criticism following India’s first ever series defeat to Bangladesh. This 3^rd match won’t affect the result of the series but it might provide answers to the questions on the places of some players in the Indian side. The Indian spinner, Ravichandran Ashwin answered the reporters ahead of the final ODI.

Ashwin admitted that Bangladesh was the better side and they were deserving winners. He considers the victory in the last match a “challenge” as he said, “Losing the series is not an insult for us. A good side has beaten us, Bangladesh know what needs to be done here. They are on the rise and will beat more top teams. We failed as an unit but have learnt our lessons. It’s a challenge for us to win the last ODI,”

Mustafizur has earned lot of praise for his breathtaking performances picking an incredible 11 wickets in just 2 games. Ashwin also praised the youngster as “a good bowler” and said, “We can’t kidnap Mustafizur. He is a really good bowler and we have to give respect to him. Hopefully, we will try and avoid a ‘Banglawash’.”

Despite the series loss the mood of the dressing room is positive and that they are ready to make a statement by winning the last match of this series. “Honestly, the Indian dressing room environment is not down despite the loss. The mood of the team is getting better; losing [this series] is not the end of it. We had a quiet couple of days. We would just like to finish it on a high. We would like to win the third ODI,” he added.

Ashwin also spoke on the fitness of the team and his current form as he said, “Very important to put the best XI on the park. Every member of the Indian team is fit for tomorrow’s game. And I am really happy about my form,”

He also reflected his thoughts on media’s criticism on Dhoni as the sole reason for the team’s defeats. Ashwin feels that Dhoni is still the right man to lead India as he said, “Dhoni is a legend of the game. He has done so much for Indian cricket. It’s almost like an army where you have put your weight behind the captain, It’s [Dhoni’s offer to quit captaincy] an individual decision,”

Quick Link – Top Stories: Things that made news in the Cricket World Today