Ashwin Speaks On India’s World Test Championship Final Challenges And The ‘Bazball’ Dilemma
New Delhi, 3rd August 2023: Indian ace spinner Ravichandran Ashwin recently discussed the transitional phase the Indian team is going through and the possibility of adopting a ‘Bazball-like’ approach in Test cricket. While India has performed well in red-ball cricket on overseas tours, they haven’t been able to clinch the World Test Championship title despite making it to the final in the first two seasons.
England’s aggressive ‘Bazball’ approach, which involves an ultra-attacking batting style, has garnered attention and success, particularly during the Ashes where they managed to draw the series 2-2 despite losing the first two Tests.
Ashwin, the top-ranked Test bowler, acknowledged that India will soon face a transition phase, but he cautioned that it won’t be an easy process. He expressed his thoughts on whether India can adopt the ‘Bazball’ style and pointed out that players may face being dropped from the playing XI if they don’t consistently perform with the attacking approach.
While discussing the potential adaptation of this style, Ashwin emphasized that India should not blindly copy other teams’ methods just because they have worked for them. He stressed that India’s cricketing culture has its own unique approach, and it is essential to maintain that identity.
Shifting the focus to the upcoming ODI World Cup, Ashwin urged the team to approach the marquee tournament with a positive mindset. He expressed his hope that the team would enter the competition with full positivity and gave his request for that to be the case.
In summary, Ashwin talked about India’s transition phase and the challenges that lie ahead. He addressed the idea of adopting a ‘Bazball-like’ approach in Test cricket and stressed the importance of maintaining India’s unique style of play. Additionally, he encouraged the team to approach the ODI World Cup with a positive outlook.
