Ravichandran Ashwin’s tactical genius has once again come to the fore, this time in India’s recent Test victory over Bangladesh. With India taking a 1-0 lead in the two-match series, Ashwin’s contribution in both batting and bowling was paramount, further cementing his status as one of the finest players in Test cricket. What caught the attention of former Indian cricketer Dinesh Karthik, however, was Ashwin’s subtle mastery in setting up and dismissing the Bangladesh captain in a pivotal moment of the match.
Karthik, who has long admired Ashwin’s cricketing intellect, dissected this particular moment, acknowledging that the off-spinner had meticulously planned the dismissal. According to Karthik, Ashwin did not merely rely on spinning the ball sharply but strategically “set him up.” This methodical approach, where Ashwin gradually builds pressure, is what Karthik believes separates Ashwin from many other bowlers. “He did set him up but it was the execution that was truly remarkable,” Karthik said during a post-match discussion.
The dismissal was a classic example of Ashwin’s understanding of the game. After repeatedly bowling deliveries that turned away from the right-handed batter, Ashwin varied his line and length just enough to induce a shot that led to the batter’s downfall. Karthik explained how Ashwin, with this calculated shift, made the batter unsure of whether the ball would spin or go straight on. This is one of Ashwin’s signatures: to make the batter second-guess their movements, leading to crucial wickets, particularly on turning tracks.
In addition to his bowling, Ashwin’s performance with the bat was equally impactful. He notched up yet another half-century, showcasing his all-round ability. His contribution helped India build a significant lead, putting Bangladesh under immense pressure. As the game progressed, it was Ashwin’s second-innings bowling that put India on course for a comprehensive win. His variations, combined with precise control, saw him clinch key wickets, underlining his unmatched ability to dominate on home soil.
Karthik further emphasized that Ashwin’s all-round brilliance at this point in his career is a testament to his adaptability and hunger to keep improving. “You see him bat, you see him bowl, and you know you’re watching someone who has mastered the art of Test cricket. It’s not just about skill; it’s about knowing when to use it,” Karthik added.
This match further bolstered Ashwin’s remarkable record in the fourth innings of Test matches, where he is now one of the leading wicket-takers. His seven five-wicket hauls in the fourth innings have tied him with legends like Shane Warne and Muttiah Muralitharan. Only Sri Lanka’s Rangana Herath, with 12, has more. With Ashwin edging past Anil Kumble’s tally of wickets in the fourth innings, his place among the legends of the game seems more secure than ever.
For Karthik, it’s not just about the numbers but the way Ashwin continues to evolve, constantly refining his craft. Whether it’s outfoxing a batter with his variations or contributing crucial runs, Ashwin’s role in India’s Test team remains vital, especially in home conditions. Karthik summed up Ashwin’s performance as “a love story made in heaven” when it comes to playing at Chennai, a ground that has seen him produce some of his finest moments.
Ashwin’s ability to step up during crucial moments, combined with his experience, makes him an indispensable asset for the Indian Test side. As India continues its campaign, with Ashwin leading from the front, fans and analysts alike eagerly await more of his on-field magic, something that Dinesh Karthik believes will continue for years to come.