IND vs AUS: Rahul Dravid reveals Ravi Ashwin's position ahead of the first ODI

India head coach Rahul Dravid revealed Ravi Ashwin's batting position.

Everyone was a little surprised when they saw Ravichandran Ashwin’s name present in the ODI series against Australia. Off-spinner Ravi Ashwin has been away from the One-day international format for the last one and a half years. Now, Indian coach Rahul Dravid has opened up about India’s red-ball match-winner Ravichandran Ashwin, and said that he was already in plan in case of an injury. 

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Indian head coach Rahul Dravid said, “Someone like Ravichandran Ashwin provides experience and also contributes with the bat at number 8. This series is no trial for Ashwin, this is just an opportunity for him in this format and he was always in plans if there was an injury issue.” With Axar Patel still doubtful for the World Cup team India is looking at Ashwin as a possible replacement. 

Dravid also explains the reason to rest Virat-Rohit

Team India have rested captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, and Kuldeep Yadav from the first two ODIs of the series. KL Rahul will be leading the Indian squad in Rohit’s absence. Coach Rahul Dravid also explained the reason to rest their premier ODI players just before the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 in India. All these four names will be making their comeback in the final ODI game. 

Coach Rahul Dravid said, “We want Virat and Rohit fresh both physically and mentally for the World Cup hence they were rested for the first two ODIs.” This will allow India’s bench strength to play more games before the World Cup and importantly, Suryakumar Yadav getting game time before the mega event. SKY is part of the World Cup squad but he played only one game in the recently concluded Asia Cup 2023. 

Indian head coach Rahul Dravid confirmed that Suryakumar Yadav will be getting the opportunity to play in the first two ODIs. Dravid said, “We completely back Suryakumar Yadav, we believe he will turn it around in ODIs, and he will be getting opportunities in the first two ODIs.” India will play a three-match series against Australia before entering into the Cricket World Cup 2023.