Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25: Will Ravichandran Ashwin find a place in the India Playing 11?

When Ravichandran Ashwin walked in to bat during India's innings at 144/6, the pressure was palpable. The team needed a solid performance to regain momentum in the India vs Bangladesh 1st Test match, and Ashwin recognized this was also a crucial opportunity to bolster his case for selection in the prestigious Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Rising to the occasion, he delivered a brilliant innings, scoring 113 runs and showcasing his immense talent. For elite athletes, the thrill lies in competing against the best under challenging conditions, and playing Australia in Australia is one of the toughest tests. In any other team, Ashwin’s impressive record of over 500 wickets in 100 Tests would guarantee his spot in the playing XI. Yet, despite his credentials, competition for places remains fierce. Ideally, both Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja should be included in the playing XI, especially after their remarkable performances in the recent Chennai Test against Bangladesh, where they demonstrated their all-round capabilities.

Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25: Ravichandran Ashwin set to be part of India Playing 11?

Currently ranked as the No. 1 and No. 2 Test all-rounders by the ICC, both players excelled; Ashwin was named man of the match for his century and six-wicket haul, while Jadeja contributed significantly with an 86 and vital wickets in the first innings. Together, they embody the balance of batting and bowling prowess that can significantly enhance India’s chances in the upcoming challenges. The competition for places in the Indian cricket team is intense, especially when playing outside the subcontinent, where typically only one spinner is favored. R. Ashwin finds himself in a tough spot, often competing directly with Ravindra Jadeja, who excels across all departments, including his exceptional fielding.

With Ashwin’s batting numbers on the rise, he’s increasingly considered in the all-rounder conversation. However, during the tour of Australia, he faces stiff competition not only from Jadeja but also from pace all-rounders like Shardul Thakur, Shivam Dube, and the promising Nitish Kumar Reddy. While these pacers may not be the most established, much of cricket hinges on adapting to conditions, making them suitable candidates for the Australian pitches. Ashwin’s unique skill set as a spinner and his improving batting ability make him a valuable asset, but the challenge lies in standing out among such versatile talent. Each player brings something different to the table, and the final selection will ultimately depend on the conditions and strategy that the team management envisions for the series.

When fully fit, Ravindra Jadeja has often been the preferred choice for India in overseas conditions. In the recent World Test Championship final at London’s Kensington Oval, Jadeja played while Ashwin remained on the bench. This raises the question: has the gap between Ashwin and Jadeja narrowed? Will the selectors consider Ashwin ahead of Jadeja, or might they opt to include both in the lineup?

Playing in Australia presents unique challenges, particularly with the pace and bounce expected at venues like Perth, Brisbane, and Melbourne. In such conditions, the role of a pace bowling all-rounder becomes crucial. Ashwin's skills as a spinner and his improving batting form could make a compelling case for his inclusion alongside Jadeja, especially if the team aims to strengthen its bowling attack while maintaining flexibility in batting.

“We should have one spin all-rounder and one pace all-rounder, that will be ideal, and then rest of the bowling attack," said former Indian cricketer Karsan Ghavri. 

For the opening Test in Perth, former Indian bowler Karsan Ghavri suggested that India could opt for a lineup featuring four pacers and one spinner. This strategy might be particularly effective given the conditions expected in Perth, where extra pace and bounce will likely favor a fast-bowling attack. However, as the series progresses to other venues, the team may consider incorporating two spinners to adapt to varying pitch conditions. While there remains uncertainty regarding the selection of a pace all-rounder, India is in a fortunate position with both Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja in exceptional form. Their all-round capabilities provide the team with significant flexibility, making it possible to balance the bowling lineup while ensuring solid contributions with the bat.

The prospect of utilizing both Ashwin and Jadeja adds depth to India’s strategy, allowing the team to adapt to different match situations. As the Australian tour approaches, it’s clear that India won’t be short of options. The combination of skillful spinners and an array of pace bowlers gives the selectors plenty to ponder. Ultimately, the ability to tailor the squad based on conditions and opponents will be crucial as India seeks to make a strong statement in the challenging Australian environment.