If R. Ashwin says that batting comes naturally to him, itâs best to take him at his word. During the first Test between India and Bangladesh, the off-spinner put on a masterclass at his home ground, M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, in Chennai. He scored a clinical century, smashing 113 off 133 balls, and formed a crucial 199-run partnership for the seventh wicket with fellow spinner Ravindra Jadeja, who eventually fell for 86 off 124 balls.
âI make a living by bowling, so bowling comes first. Batting is something that comes naturally, but I have focused my thoughts with batting over the last few years,â Ashwin, named Player of the Match, said after the match.
But Ashwinâs contributions in Indiaâs 280-run victory were far from over. In Bangladeshâs second innings, he picked up his 37th Test five-wicket haul, finishing with figures of 6/88.
âEvery time I play in Chennai, itâs an amazing feeling. Iâve watched a lot of Tests, international cricket in those stands, so to do it in front of those renovated stands is great,â he added.
âI am probably enjoying my play because of what I am doing, not because of what I want to get out of it. The century was an opportunity to fight and dig deep. Iâve seen so many teammates do it in the past. It was a special innings, and it didnât sink in until day two,â he reflected.
With this victory, India now leads the two-match series 1-0.
Source Agencies
