Australia’s star opener Usman Khawaja has expressed his admiration for legendary Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, praising his strategic approach and cricketing intelligence. As the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia approaches, Khawaja acknowledged Ashwin’s formidable record against the Aussies.
Ashwin has been a thorn in Australia’s side, claiming 114 wickets in 22 Tests and 42 innings against them. His economy rate of 2.70 is a testament to his ability to control the flow of runs. On Australian soil, Ashwin has taken 39 wickets in 10 Tests, maintaining an impressive economy rate of 2.93.
Khawaja believes that Ashwin’s success stems from his ability to stay ahead of the game. “He is very strategic, he always has a plan,” Khawaja said. “He always tries to figure it out. He is trying to get ahead of the game, one step ahead of the game, which I respect. I respect his cricketing brain.”
Ashwin’s debut in 2011 marked the beginning of a remarkable Test career. In 100 matches and 189 innings, he has captured 516 wickets at an economy rate of 2.81. His ability to spin the ball prodigiously and deceive batsmen with his variations has made him one of the most successful bowlers in the world.
The upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy promises to be a thrilling contest, with India seeking to extend its dominance over Australia. The series will begin on November 22 in Perth, with the second Test scheduled for Adelaide Oval from December 6 to 10. The third Test will be played at The Gabba in Brisbane from December 14 to 18, followed by the traditional Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground from December 26 to 30. The series will conclude with the fifth and final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 3 to 7.
