Ravichandran Ashwin Trains Intensely At Nets Ahead Of Cricket World Cup 2023 Match vs Australia

Veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin went through an engaging net session in Chennai, ahead of World Cup 2023 match between India and Australia. Ashwin could be included as the third spinner behind Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav against the Aussies ahead of pacer Shardul Thakur considering a possibly gripping pitch at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, and his hold over veterans David Warner and Steve Smith. Ashwin, who takes the ball away from the left-handers with his off-breaks, has had the measure of Warner in the past, dismissing him 11 times in the Tests.

The Aussie had batted right-handed in the recent second ODI against India at Indore to counter Ashwin.

Smith, a consistent run-scorer in ODIs, too had his struggles against the Indian maestro, especially in Test cricket.

Hence, it would not be a big surprise to see Ashwin getting a nod ahead of Thakur in the first match at Chepauk.

Ashwin, who replaced injured Axar Patel in India's World Cup squad, bowled for an extended session at the nets here to Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan, Thakur among others.

Before rolling his arm, the Chennai man also spent considerable time at nets polishing his batting skills.

Ashwin started the batting session facing throwdowns from the side-arm specialists in the squad before testing his skills against regular India bowlers and a set of local net bowlers.

Ashwin, who has always been a sweet timer of the ball, impressed with his ability to play the aerial shots, something that will be handy if he comes out to bat at No. 8.

It was the second practice session of India ahead of their match against Australia, and everyone except Shubman Gill turned up for the action.

Star batter Virat Kohli looked in fine touch during his nearly 45 minutes