Ashwin Criticises India’s Selection After ODI Loss
Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin sharply criticised the team selection for the first ODI against Australia, saying he “doesn’t get” the strategy behind omitting Kuldeep Yadav from the playing XI. Ashwin pointed out that India had opted for three all-rounders in the lineup, yet left out one of its best spin options.
Match Context and Performance
India lost the opening one-day international at Perth to Australia by seven wickets. In a rain-shortened match, India posted 136/9 in 26 overs, and Australia chased down a revised target of 131 under the DLS method. The spinner’s omission became a major talking point among former cricketers and analysts.
Key Observation From Ashwin
Ashwin questioned the logic of not playing Kuldeep in “big grounds” like Perth where spin can be effective, asking: “If you still can’t play your best spinner, I don’t get it at all.” He underlined that selection should prioritise playing the best possible XI rather than just balancing roles.
Implications for Team Strategy
The criticism highlights broader questions about India’s team balance and playing conditions. With big wickets at stake and a demanding Australian tour ahead, selection calls are under greater scrutiny. How the management responds in subsequent ODIs will be closely watched.
