Chennai. When the Test series between India and Australia starts from November 22, an interesting match will be seen between many greats. Rohit Sharma vs Mitchell Starc, Virat Kohli vs Pat Cummins… such an interesting fight can be seen between Ravichandran Ashwin and Steve Smith. Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is ready for this. Ashwin said that he has found ways to deal with Australian batsman Steve Smith.
R Ashwin and Steve Smith have spent time together in IPL franchises Rising Pune Supergiant (RPSG) and Delhi Capitals. This helped Ashwin to ‘understand the strategy’ of Smith. Ashwin said in an interview to ‘7Cricket’, ‘Steve Smith plays well against spin. He has a unique technique. His style of playing fast bowling is also a little different, but effective.
Ashwin said, ‘In terms of spin, he came with a good strategy and good preparation and yes, he used to apply it in any situation. Over the years I have discovered ways and means to understand this. When he was at Delhi Capitals, at RPSG, all those net sessions that I spent with him made me understand how he prepares and what he likes and what he doesn’t.
Ashwin, who first bowled to Smith during India’s 2013-14 tour of Australia, praised the player. Facing Ashwin, Smith scored 348 runs in 570 balls. Ashwin has been able to dismiss Smith only three times.
Ashwin said, ‘He is also a very thinking cricketer. He wants to perform better than you all the time. He has unique ways of practicing and facing you on the field. Sometimes as a bowler, when you see the batsman going through his process, you recognize where the shortcomings are. The Indian spinner said, ‘Much later, when I think I have understood what he does or how he bats, I overtake him. Ashwin is the third highest Test wicket taker for India in Australia with 38 wickets. Ahead of him are Anil Kumble (49) and Kapil Dev (51). (Input PTI)
FIRST PUBLISHED: November 13, 2024, 15:58 IST