Watch: The act of R. Ashwin after the first ODI earns respect from the fans
There is no doubt that Ravichandran Ashwin is one of the best and true cricket geniuses. He marked his return to the India ODI team against Australia on Friday and gave and produced an important spell of 10 overs in which he conceded 47 runs and claimed a wicket. But it was the post-match act of Ashwin after the victory of team India over Australia in Mohali that won over fans. The veteran all-rounder, having not gotten the opportunity to bat in the first ODI against the Aussies, went on to do some batting practice in the nets after the match.
The importance of all-rounders in the Indian team is clear. The management and selectors have also hinted in recent times how important it is for them to have a long batting line-up. Ashwin, being a handy batsman who has hit a few centuries in the Test format, wants to prove his worth to the team, not just with the bat but with the ball too.
Here's the video
Earlier, the head coach of team India, Rahul Dravid, explained the inclusion of Ashwin in the ODI team, saying that "someone like Ravichandran Ashwin provides experience and also contributes with the bat at No. 8. This series is no trial for Ashwin; this is just an opportunity for him in this format.”