Though Rajasthan Royals (RR) are currently leading the points table in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL), ace-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin’s lack of form is a great concern for them.
The once purple cap front-runner has been far below in the wickets column this year. He has struck only twice in eight matches in IPL 2024 so far.
In response to Ashwin’s poor form, former India explosive opener Virender Sehwag believes that despite his credentials, Ashwin doesn’t have a wicket-taking role in the franchise. Sehwag further stated that Ashwin prioritizing being economic over wickets is what had led to him being dropped from India’s ODI squad back in 2017.
“If Ashwin does contain…if he does give six runs in an over and doesn’t get a wicket, that’s the same reason why he was dropped from the ODI squad after the 2017 Champions Trophy. He wasn’t able to get the wickets in the middle overs. And even when he made a comeback, he wasn’t able to do so. When that happens, when you bowl your overs for 6-7 runs, it becomes tougher for other bowlers with a set batter still in the middle,” said Sehwag during an interaction.
“They aren’t as smart as you are. They can’t escape like you do. So they will get peppered for more runs. So it’s better that you bowl to get the wickets, not for dot balls. That’s my opinion. You have so much experience, you should look to get the wickets. Not to escape from getting hit,” he added.