It could well be my last World Cup – Ravichandran Ashwin

At the beginning of September, Ajit Agarkar announced India’s preliminary squad for the World Cup, a side that did not include Ravichandran Ashwin, nor was he anywhere close to selection. However, come Asia Cup, Axar Patel copped a blow against Bangladesh and suffered a quadriceps strain, opening up the door open for Ashwin’s selection into the squad ahead of the Australia series. 

Sadly for Axar, he has failed to recover in time for the World Cup, thus enabling Ashwin’s inclusion in the India squad for the global event. Prior to the series against Australia, Ashwin had been out of ODI cricket for a staggering 20 months and on his return, he produced pretty stunning figures that troubled Australia quite a bit in the first two games.

During a chat with Dinesh Karthik for Star Sports, Ashwin answered a range of questions on his selection for the World Cup. He said, “Life is full of surprises and I honestly wasn't thinking I would be here. The trust that the team management has shown and circumstances have made sure I am here today. But enjoying the game has been my prime motive over the last few years and that is what I will be doing in this tournament."

Ash concluded by saying about his strengths and what makes this World Cup special for him, stating, “All I do is turn the ball both ways and I feel I can already do that. It is all about doing subtle variations and dealing with pressure in these sorts of tournaments. Pressure is of paramount importance for most players in these tournaments, but how you deal with it dictates how the tournament goes for yourself and the team. As far as I am concerned, being in a good space and enjoying the game will hold me in good stead. I have kept saying this, it could well be my last World Cup for India.”