On England’s ODI series loss against India and Ben Stokes’ WTC points system rant, R Ashwin slams Ben Duckett for his comments
Following India's dominant performance against England in the recent white-ball series, R Ashwin has criticized England's approach and Ben Duckett's comments. India swept the ODI series 3-0 after winning the T20Is 4-1.
Ashwin expressed his disappointment in England's performance, stating that it was "sad to see such a talented side perform in such a way." Despite this, he believes England has the potential to rebound in the upcoming Champions Trophy.
Ashwin took issue with Ben Duckett's statement that a series whitewash against India wouldn't matter if England wins the Champions Trophy final against the same opponent. Ashwin views this as an attempt to mask England's failures with humor, recalling Duckett's previous comments about Yashasvi Jaiswal adopting England's aggressive "Bazball" approach during the 2024 Test series, which India won 4-1.
"No matter what Ben Duckett says but going into the Champions Trophy This series loss will create a big dent to their confidence," Ashwin stated. He highlighted England's poor performance over the past four years, including their disappointing 2023 ODI World Cup campaign, suggesting that the team has consistently failed to live up to its potential.
Ashwin also criticized England Test captain Ben Stokes for questioning the World Test Championship (WTC) points system. Ashwin advised Stokes to first understand the system before criticizing it, pointing out what he sees as a pattern of making excuses after losses. He contrasted this with what he believes would be the likely outcome if India had performed as England did, suggesting a change in leadership. Ashwin also criticized England's focus on pitch conditions and accommodations rather than the cricket itself.
In the third ODI, Shubman Gill's century propelled India to 356, while Arshdeep Singh led the bowling attack as England was all out for 214.