It is the moment of elation for Indian cricket as for the second consecutive time, an Indian player has been nominated for the ICC Player of the Month Award. England skipper Joe Root, who was overtaken by Rishab Pant last month, has also been nominated for the second time in a row.
Ashwin, besides scoring a stifling ton during the second match of the ongoing series between India and England, scalped 24 wickets, reaching the 400 wickets landmark. This is a big achievement for any bowler. Nevertheless, he has indeed accomplished most of it on the spin-friendly pitches, but his significant contribution to India`s victory in the last two Tests can’t be overlooked.
Ashwin also altered his bowling action lately, and as it seems, the change has delivered. Usually, the youngsters are seen making changes in their action, but when the bowler is close to 400 wickets experiments, it reflects the confidence and ingenuity of the player. If we take a look at Ashwin’s bowling very closely, we will find that there is a lot of synergy between his release point and the foot alignment. His action is completely different from what he would prefer in 2016.
On the contrary, Joe Root in the first Test in Chennai steered his team to victory by scoring a double century at a time when everyone was predicting India’s sweeping victory. The skipper also took five wickets as a part-time bowler, with precision, furtive acuity, and economical spells, and the stint went so well that it reflected Root in the avatar of a complete spinner.
The third contender in the race is West Indies’ young sensation Kyle Mayors who surpassed his team’s target of 395 runs in his very first Test. His double century made a mark, and especially because it was scored by a debutant. Mayors hails from Barbados, where former legendary players Gordon Greenidge and Desmond Hanes belong.
Of course, the performance of all three has been excellent, but Ashwin will likely win the race and clinch the title, without giving any surprise to the cricket lovers.
The author has played 6 Tests and 12 ODIs as a wicket-keeper batsman for Team India
Ashwin, besides scoring a century during the second match of the ongoing series between India and England, scalped 24 wickets, reaching the 400 wicket landmark.