Ashwin backs Suryakumar and Tilak for Asia Cup and India World Cup 2023

The BCCI's announcement of the Asia Cup 2023 squad on Monday has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world, sparking intense debates and criticisms as fans dissect the 17-player roster meticulously curated by the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee, and now R Ashwin has joined the debate.

While many expected the core group of players to remain intact, there were several eyebrow-raising selections that caught the attention of cricket enthusiasts. One name that stood out was Suryakumar Yadav, a talented cricketer who has faced scrutiny for his somewhat underwhelming performances in ODIs. Additionally, the inclusion of Tilak Varma left some fans scratching their heads.

In a surprising turn of events, veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin decided to step forward and address the growing chorus of criticism and differences of opinion surrounding the squad selection. Ashwin, with his years of experience, urged fans and critics alike to adopt a more understanding and positive perspective.

Ashwin lashes out at fans and pundits for criticism of Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma

“The selectors know their job, and in a big country like India, while selecting a squad, some key players get left out. Just because your favourite player is missing from the squad, you should not degrade others,” Ashwin emphasized.

World Cup 2023
Photo by Icon sport

Ashwin further extended his support to Tilak Varma, who had faced a rough patch during India's recent encounters with Ireland. Despite the lackluster performance, Ashwin expressed his faith in Varma's capabilities and resilience.

“He hasn’t scored much against Ireland, but he has unreal intent from the first ball. He comes to bat with a clear mind. They have backed him for the backup slot similar to Surya,” Ashwin remarked.

Also Read: Ben Stokes the best England ‘ever produced’ – Joe Root ahead of World Cup 2023

With the Asia Cup 2023 just around the corner, cricket aficionados are eagerly awaiting the epic clash between India and Pakistan, scheduled for September 2. This high-stakes match is sure to test the mettle of the players and put the committee's selections to the ultimate test.

As the countdown to the tournament intensifies, it is essential to reflect on the intricacies of squad selection in a country where cricket is not just a sport but a way of life.

The selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, faces the daunting task of assembling a team that can compete at the highest level while considering the vast talent pool that India boasts.

The inclusion of Suryakumar Yadav, a dynamic batsman who has made a name for himself in the shortest format of the game, was met with mixed reactions.

While some fans celebrated his selection, others questioned whether his performance in ODIs warranted his place in the squad. Yadav's ability to adapt his game to different formats will be closely monitored during the tournament.

Tilak Varma, a promising young talent, has been a topic of discussion since his selection. Despite struggling against Ireland, Varma's selection suggests that the committee sees great potential in him. His ability to bounce back from a tough outing will be a testament to his character and determination.

Also Read: India’s ODI World Cup 2023 squad ‘really a no-brainer’ – Agarkar hints

R Ashwin's intervention in the ongoing debate brings a fresh perspective to the table. The seasoned spinner, known for his astute cricketing mind, understands the pressures and challenges of international cricket. His call for unity among fans and an appreciation for the selectors' difficult task resonates with those who understand the nuances of squad selection.

As the Asia Cup 2023 approaches, the focus shifts to the players themselves. They now carry the responsibility of representing their nation on the field and proving their worth. The India-Pakistan clash promises to be a spectacle, and it's moments like these that define a cricketer's career.

Prasenjit DeyPrasenjit Dey

Prasenjit Dey is an independent cricket journalist with Bylines across reputed publications like Cricbuzz, The Hindu, The Cricketer, Fancode, and The Quint Among Others. He has an experience of eight years in the field and is a valuable addition to the Cricnerds team. You can follow him on Twitter @CricPrasen.

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