It's a blessing for us – Rahul Dravid on Ravichandran Ashwin

The inclusion of Ravichandran Ashwin to the Indian squad has sparked quite a few conversations in the Indian cricket circles, and it is believed India may opt to slot him into the squad for the World Cup 2023 if Axar Patel misses out due to injury.

The experts around the world have been divided over this move as one faction believes that the timing should have been more appropriate and India is somehow taking a knee-jerk reaction, while the other has people expressing their optimism at the veteran spinner's inclusion.

Indian coach Rahul Dravid shed some light on the fact that Ashwin’s inclusion to the side is purely on the basis of his merit and there isn’t any other undertone to this move. Dravid also underlined the kind of experience that Ash brings to the side, terming it as "priceless".

Talking in the pre-match press conference ahead of the 1st IND vs AUS ODI, Dravid said, “I will not say that for him it is a trial or anything, we know his quality. This is a chance for him to play in this format and we just want to give him an opportunity to play in two or three games.”

Adding further, Dravid underlined the value of experience, stating, “If we have a player like Ashwin, who we can rely upon if someone is injured, it’s a blessing for us. It’s a good chance for him to test himself because he has not played 50-over cricket for a long time.”

He also said, “Someone like Ashwin provides you that experience, that ability to also contribute with the bat at No. 8. Someone we always thought of in case there are certain opportunities opened, he is someone, who is definitely a part of your plans.”

Ashwin has been included in India's squad for the three-match ODI series against Australia, a series which will serve as a perfect dress rehearsal for India ahead of the World Cup.