Ashwin: The ‘Scientist’ of Spin and Batting Innovation
India’s spin-bowling all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin, often nicknamed the ‘scientist’ for his inventive tactics, continues to evolve his game. In the ongoing Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL), the Dindigul Dragons captain has taken a bold approach, promoting himself up the batting order and scoring at a rapid strike rate.
Promoting Himself Up the Order
Ahead of the TNPL 2024 final, Ashwin spoke about his impressive batting performances in the last two games. He emphasized his realization of the need to expand his batting skills during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. “Look, everything is a work in progress, right? You can even ask Shahrukh Khan [Lyca Kovai Kings captain] about it. How does he do power-hitting… how do you hit the ball through the off side and leg side? It’s all about repetitions, and understanding angles and triggers,” Ashwin mentioned in the pre-match press conference.
Evolving His Game
Ashwin reflected on his IPL experience, stating, “Obviously, in the last IPL, I felt like I needed to widen my game and widen my horizons square of the wicket because I know I can hit the ball down the ground, and I can use my feet. Do I want to explore other options is something I had to ask myself. So if I can ask that question and if I can find an answer, it gives me a new avenue to explore and keep myself interested in the game.”
Impressive TNPL 2024 Performance
In TNPL 2024, the 37-year-old Ashwin has scored 200 runs from eight innings, averaging 33.33 with a strike rate of 166.66. He is the second-highest run-scorer for the Dragons, with Shivam Singh leading at 360 runs from eight innings.
Clutch Performances in Must-Win Games
Ashwin has delivered when it matters most. In the eliminator clash against Chepauk Super Gillies, he formed a 112-run partnership with Shivam Singh for the second wicket. Batting at no.3, he scored a 35-ball 57, featuring four fours and four sixes, helping the Dragons win by six wickets with one ball to spare.
In Qualifier 2 against IDream Tiruppur Tamizhans, Ashwin efficiently chased a 109-run target, smashing an unbeaten 30-ball 69 with 11 fours and three sixes, securing a nine-wicket win with 9.1 overs to spare.
Looking Ahead to the Final
Ashwin hopes to maintain his stellar form as the Dragons face Lyca Kovai Kings in the TNPL 2024 final on August 4 at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. His contributions with the bat will be crucial for the Dragons’ championship aspirations.(cricket betting app)