Ahead of India's first warm-up match, Ravichandran Ashwin spoke his heart out about playing the last ICC World Cup for India. The veteran spinner was roped into the World Cup squad at the very last moment after Axar Patel failed to recover from his injury.
"Being in a good space and enjoying this tournament will keep me in good stead. This could be my last World Cup for India, so enjoying the tournament is of utmost importance," Ashwin told Star Sports.
"I would have said that you were joking. Life is full of surprises. Honestly, did not think I would be here. Circumstances have made sure I am here today, the team management has shown trust," said Ashwin while talking about his inclusion in the Indian squad.
Ashwin has played 10 matches for India in World Cup history with his last appearance coming in 2015. He has bagged 17 wickets in the competition at an average of 24.88 and an economy of 4.36 with his best figures being 4/25.
Here are some of the top international records of R Ashwin:
Test matches
- 2nd Most Player of the Series awards
- 5th Most ten-wickets-in-a-match
- 1st one to reach the Fastest 350 wickets in a test match
- 8th Outstanding bowling analysis in an innings
- 8th Most wickets taken lbw
- A hundred and five wickets in an innings
Combined Test, ODI and T20I records
- 8th Most Player of the Series awards
- 8th Most five wickets in an innings in a career
- 10th Most wickets taken lbw
Twenty20 Internationals
- 9th Worst economy rate in an innings
Apart from Virat Kohli, Ashwin is the only member of the current Indian side who was also a part of their World Cup-winning campaign in 2011. Ashwin said dealing with pressure would be crucial. "All you can do is turn the ball both ways, and I think I can do it. Dealing with pressure is paramount in these tournaments, and it will dictate how the tournament goes," he said.
(With PTI inputs)
First Published: Sept 30, 2023 5:14 PM IST
