Cricket

Ravichandran Ashwin, India's premier off-spinner, has been a force to reckon with in the longest format of the game. However, former India opener Gautam Gambhir believes that the nation has missed out on witnessing Ashwin's true potential with the bat in white-ball cricket.In the domestic circuit, Ashwin has established himself as a genuine all-rounder, showcasing his prowess with both bat and ball. However, for India, he has primarily been utilized as a bowler, leaving his batting abilities largely untapped.Gambhir expressed his disappointment over this missed opportunity, stating that Ashwin's batting potential has not been fully realized at the international level. "A bit disappointed, this country hasn't seen the potential which you had with the bat, especially in white-ball cricket," Gambhir said in an episode of Ashwin's Kutti Stories.Ashwin's first-class record is a testament to his batting prowess. In 156 matches, he has accumulated 5,221 runs at an average of 28.06. In List A cricket, he has amassed 1,346 runs at a strike rate of 77.35.At the international level, Ashwin has shown glimpses of his batting ability. In 19 T20I innings, he has scored 184 runs, while in 63 ODI innings, he has amassed 707 runs.One of Ashwin's most memorable batting performances came in 2011 against the West Indies in Mumbai. Chasing a mammoth total of 590, Ashwin played a pivotal role in India's fightback, scoring a brilliant 103.While Ashwin's bowling prowess has earned him widespread recognition, Gambhir believes that India has missed out on a valuable opportunity to utilize his batting skills in white-ball cricket.

Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders: A Rivalry of Strategic SimilaritiesThe Indian Premier League (IPL) has witnessed several intense rivalries over the years, but the one between the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) stands out as a clash of strategic brilliance. Former KKR mentor Gautam Gambhir recently shed light on the similarities between the two teams' approaches to the game.In a YouTube interview with Ravichandran Ashwin, Gambhir highlighted that CSK and KKR shared a common philosophy in their game plans. "I always felt that CSK and KKR were very, very similar in the way they approached the game," he said.Both teams relied heavily on their spin bowling prowess. CSK boasted the likes of Ravindra Jadeja, Harbhajan Singh, and Imran Tahir, while KKR had Sunil Narine, Piyush Chawla, and Kuldeep Yadav. The spinners played a crucial role in controlling the run rate and taking wickets at crucial junctures.The conditions at the Chepauk Stadium in Chennai and the Eden Gardens in Kolkata also played a part in shaping the teams' strategies. Both grounds had large dimensions, which favored spinners and made it difficult for batsmen to score boundaries.Gambhir emphasized that KKR had to be at their tactical best to overcome CSK. "That's the reason why I always felt that CSK and KKR during those times were very very similar teams," he added.The rivalry between CSK and KKR has produced some memorable matches over the years. In the 31 head-to-head encounters since 2008, CSK has emerged victorious 19 times, while KKR has won 11. The remaining match ended in a no-result.Gambhir's insights provide a fascinating glimpse into the strategic nuances that have defined this iconic rivalry. The similarities between CSK and KKR's approaches have made their matches a battle of wits, where the team that executes its plans more effectively emerges victorious.

The "Impact Player" rule, introduced in the Indian Premier League (IPL) last season, has sparked controversy among experts and players. However, former India coach Ravi Shastri and senior spinner Ravichandran Ashwin have come out in support of the rule, arguing that it leads to more exciting and close finishes.Shastri believes that the rule encourages players to take risks and make the most of their opportunities. "When any new rule comes in, there will be people who will try to justify why that's not right," he said. "But with time, when you see the scores - 200 and 190 - and then, individuals grabbing that opportunity and making the most of it, people will start re-looking at how they think about it."Ashwin echoed Shastri's sentiments, stating that the rule has made the game more competitive. "I think it's a good rule. You saw the number of tight finishes we had in last year's IPL. So, it has made a big difference," he said.The rule allows teams to substitute one player from their starting lineup with a designated "Impact Player" after the 14th over of the first innings or the 10th over of the second innings. This gives teams the flexibility to adjust their strategy based on the match situation.However, some players, including India skipper Rohit Sharma and Delhi Capitals' Axar Patel, have expressed concerns that the rule could hinder the development of all-rounders. Sharma believes that it takes away from the traditional 11-player format of the game.Despite these concerns, the BCCI has indicated that the rule is not permanent and will be reviewed after the World Cup. Secretary Jay Shah said that the rule is intended to give more opportunities to Indian players and make the game more competitive.The "Impact Player" rule has certainly sparked debate and discussion within the cricket community. While some believe it adds excitement and unpredictability to the game, others worry about its potential impact on the development of all-rounders. Only time will tell whether the rule will become a permanent fixture in the IPL or be phased out in the future.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has sparked a debate on the concept of the "Spirit of Cricket" after expressing his preference for adhering to the rules over the spirit of the game. Shastri's comments came during a discussion on veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin's YouTube channel.Shastri's remarks stem from incidents during India's Test series in England in 2021, where India secured a historic victory at Lord's in the second Test. One notable incident involved England's James Anderson engaging in a heated argument with Indian players, particularly Jasprit Bumrah.During the match, Bumrah delivered a series of bouncers to Anderson, resulting in him being struck on the helmet, ribs, and left hand. This led to a tense exchange of words between the players involved.Reminiscing on the argument, Shastri said, "What is wrong with that? You got a bat in your hand. There is no rule that tail-enders you should not (bounce). Then declare the innings, no? If it gets too hot in the kitchen and you do not want to be there, then stay inside, be clear, your fingers are fine, everything is fine, and you can bowl as much as you want so that you are not injured."Shastri's comments have reignited the debate on the "Spirit of Cricket," which has garnered significant attention recently, particularly concerning incidents of batters being run out at the non-striker's end. Although this mode of dismissal is entirely legal within the rules of the game, it has been viewed by many experts and fans as going against the spirit of cricket.One notable incident involved Ashwin, who famously dismissed England batter Jos Buttler in a similar manner during an IPL game. Ashwin's action attracted criticism, with many fans and experts calling for bowlers to warn the non-striker before executing such a dismissal.Several other players, including Indian women's cricketer Deepti Sharma, have also employed this mode of dismissal, resulting in criticism from ex-cricketers and fans alike. Critics argue that the 'spirit of cricket' should take precedence over strict adherence to the rules in such cases.Shastri, however, believes that rules should take precedence over the spirit of the game. "Forget spirit. I believe in rules. You (Ashwin) mankaded a guy, it rules, there's a rule book, observe the damn rules. A guy running two steps ahead, 'It's not fair, you should warn me.' For what warn? The rule says you're cheating. I hate warnings. I'll take the bails off straightaway. On your bike now! Rule book page 33. Don't whinge and moan after the event. It's there. It is the same for both teams," the 61-year-old added.Shastri's comments have sparked a heated debate among cricket fans and experts, with some supporting his stance on prioritizing rules and others advocating for the preservation of the "Spirit of Cricket."

Ravi Shastri's Unconventional Advice to Rishabh Pant: A Masterstroke in CoachingDuring India's Test match against England in Chennai, then-head coach Ravi Shastri witnessed Rishabh Pant's relentless assault on England spinner Jack Leach. Instead of the conventional advice to "grind it out," Shastri surprised Pant with an unconventional suggestion: "Don't hit there, play the reverse sweep."This unconventional advice caught the attention of Ravichandran Ashwin, who later sought an explanation from Shastri on his YouTube show. Shastri explained that he understood Pant's unique character and knew that telling him not to play the shot would only make him more determined to do so."I knew if I tell him don't play it, that's against his nature and he might play it even more," Shastri said. "So, I gave him an alternative option that would still allow him to be aggressive but in a more controlled manner."Shastri's unconventional advice proved to be a masterstroke. Pant, known for his fearless batting, embraced the reverse sweep and used it to great effect against Leach. The shot allowed him to continue his aggressive approach while minimizing the risk of getting out.Shastri's ability to adapt his coaching style to the unique characteristics of each player is a testament to his astute understanding of the game and his players. By recognizing Pant's strengths and weaknesses, Shastri was able to provide him with advice that not only allowed him to express his natural talent but also helped him become a more effective batsman.This incident highlights the importance of coaches who are willing to think outside the box and tailor their advice to the individual needs of their players. By embracing unconventional approaches, coaches can empower their players to reach their full potential and achieve success on the field.

India's Test series triumph against England earlier this year was etched into the memories of cricket enthusiasts for its thrilling matches and memorable moments. One such moment was the witty remark by Indian skipper Rohit Sharma, who instructed his fielders to avoid "roaming around as if they're in a garden."This statement, captured by the stump microphone, went viral and amused fans. Recently, Rajasthan Royals all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin, who was part of the Test series, shared his humorous take on Rohit's comment."Rohit said not to roam around in the garden, and he's right. These guys really walk as if they're in a garden," Ashwin said during a promotional event.Ashwin also highlighted the importance of keeping the ball dry for reverse swing, a technique he employs effectively. He expressed his frustration with fielders who would apply saliva or sweat to the ball, hindering his ability to generate reverse swing."If you put sweat on the ball, how can I bowl reverse swing?" Ashwin said. "That's how he reacts."Ashwin also had a hilarious take on the size of boundaries in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season."The boundary in Jaipur is huge. When I saw that, I told Dhruv Jurel, 'At least let it be somewhere.' Watching that, I felt at this stage of my career, I would need a bicycle to reach the boundary," Ashwin said."Then in the next stadium, I felt I could walk and the next I could run. In one, I felt if I spit my chewing gum, it will cross the boundary rope for a six," he added.Rajasthan Royals will face Delhi Capitals in their next IPL match on Tuesday at the Arun Jaitely Stadium.

Ravichandran Ashwin, the world-renowned off-spinner, has raised concerns about the impact of extreme power-hitting on the relevance of cricket stadiums. He believes that the current trend towards massive totals is making the size of playing fields less significant, potentially leading to a one-sided game.Ashwin's observations stem from the extraordinary scores witnessed in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). Teams have consistently posted totals exceeding 250, with the use of Impact Substitutions further boosting batting prowess. The veteran spinner argues that the stadiums built in the past are no longer suitable for modern-day cricket, as the use of LED sponsor boards has effectively reduced boundary distances.Ashwin fears that if the current pattern continues, the game will become heavily biased towards batsmen. He emphasizes the need for bowlers to receive mental support and encouragement to cope with the challenges posed by power-hitters. However, he remains optimistic that talented bowlers will find ways to differentiate themselves and succeed.Despite his concerns, Ashwin acknowledges the remarkable ball-striking abilities of modern batsmen. He is impressed by the Rajasthan Royals' bowling attack, which has managed to contain the opposition despite the high-scoring environment. He also highlights the importance of spectators witnessing boundaries and sixes, which ultimately drive the popularity of the sport.Ashwin's humorous take on the varying stadium sizes adds a lighthearted touch to his analysis. He describes the Jaipur ground as requiring a bicycle to reach the boundary, while in other stadiums, he feels he could simply walk or run.Shane Bond, the Royals' bowling coach, echoes Ashwin's sentiments, stating that bowlers who can perform well in the current batting-dominated era have the potential to earn significant financial rewards. He believes that bowling is evolving to catch up with the advancements in batting techniques.

Virender Sehwag has launched a scathing attack on Ravichandran Ashwin for his recent statement that strike rate doesn't matter for bowlers. Sehwag, known for his outspoken nature, pointed out Ashwin's poor wicket-taking record in the ongoing IPL 2024 and suggested that the off-spinner might not find a place in the playing XI of a team coached by him."This is the same as when KL Rahul had said that the strike rate doesn't matter. Same thing. He said it for batting, Ashwin has said it for bowling that it doesn't matter if you get the wickets. If his stats aren't good, then he may not even get picked in the auction next year. When you pick a bowler, do you expect him to give away 25-30 runs or do you expect him to give you wickets and become man of the match twice or thrice?" Sehwag said on Cricbuzz.Sehwag further criticized Ashwin's bowling style, suggesting that the off-spinner is not getting wickets because he is not bowling his best deliveries. "All his competitors - Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav or anyone else - are getting the wickets. He thinks if he bowls off spin then anyone will hit him. Which is why he bowls his carrom bowl, which is why he is not getting any wickets. Maybe if he believes in his off spin or doosra, he can bag more wickets. But that's his mindset. But if I were a mentor or a coach of a franchise, I wouldn't think like that. If my bowler is thinking about saving runs and not taking wickets, he won't find a place in the team."Despite Ashwin's poor form, Rajasthan Royals have continued to support him by featuring him regularly in their playing XI. However, his spin-bowling teammate at RR, Yuzvendra Chahal, has been more prolific with 13 wickets in 9 matches and has maintained an economy rate of 9.Earlier, Ashwin had made an appeal after bowlers getting hammered in the current IPL season saying "Save the bowlers someone plsss SOS SOS SOS".

MS Dhoni, the legendary Indian cricketer and former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain, is renowned for his exceptional leadership skills and ability to nurture young talent. In a recent episode of Ravichandran Ashwin's YouTube channel, former Australian batsman Michael Hussey, who has a close association with CSK and Dhoni, shared his insights on Dhoni's remarkable ability to create champion players and successful teams.Hussey emphasized Dhoni's keen understanding of what it takes to foster a winning environment and assemble a team that can achieve long-term success. He highlighted Dhoni's unwavering trust in his players, which has been a key factor in CSK's consistent performance over the years."He looks for good players to play that particular role, but he also looks for good people," Hussey said. "And once he has got those good people, he will really back them to the hilt."Hussey cited the example of Shane Watson, who struggled for form during a season with Australia but was given unwavering support by Dhoni. Watson eventually repaid Dhoni's faith by delivering crucial performances in the playoffs."Dhoni just said 'no, we are sticking with him, he will come good'," Hussey recalled. "And sure enough, he came good when we made the playoffs."Hussey also praised Dhoni's ability to alleviate pressure from players, particularly young Indian players. He attributed this to Dhoni's unique perspective on the game and his exceptional interpersonal skills."He's got an amazing ability to take pressure off players, particularly young Indian players," Hussey said. "He's got an amazing perspective on the game; the way he treats people and players is very special. You feel like you're backed, you're trusted and you're loved very much."Despite handing over the CSK captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of the ongoing IPL 2024 season, Dhoni remains a guiding force for the team. His presence and experience continue to inspire the players and contribute to CSK's success.