A bold statement has been made by none other than Ravichandran Ashwin, the renowned Indian cricketer, following India's disappointing performance at Eden Gardens. In a candid assessment, Ashwin has revealed a harsh truth: the current Indian batting lineup is no longer the force it once was against spin bowling.
Imagine this: India, chasing a modest target of 124, suffered a 30-run defeat in just three days. Ashwin believes this outcome would have been unthinkable during an era when Indian batters dominated spin. He highlights the names of Amol Muzumdar, Mithun Manhas (the BCCI president), and the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, suggesting that their presence on the turning wicket would have extended the game to a full four days.
But here's where it gets controversial: Ashwin points out that only a small fraction of the Indian batting order demonstrated any defensive prowess. He argues that to thrive on turning tracks, a batter's game against spin must be exceptional, otherwise, they shouldn't play on such pitches.
Ashwin attributes India's decline against spin to a lack of adequate preparation. He boldly states, "We are not the best players of spin anymore. Most Western teams are better because they practice it extensively when they come to India, unlike us."
Interestingly, Ashwin notes that India has improved against fast bowling abroad, treating it as a challenge.
South Africa's victory, their first Test win in India since 2010, sets up a thrilling series as the second Test begins in Guwahati on November 22.
So, what do you think? Is Ashwin's assessment accurate? Has India's batting unit lost its edge against spin? Or is this just a blip, and India will soon return to its dominant ways? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!
