Ravichandran Ashwin is the highest wicket-taker of 2015 so far © AFP
Ravichandran Ashwin received appreciation from former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar when the latter said Ashwin stands apart from his peers and the off-spinner can be useful for India in overseas conditions too. The Indian bowler has emerged as one of the best finds of world cricket as he already has 169 wickets from just 31 Tests. The Chennai bowler also turned out to be the turning point in the ongoing series against South Africa as his 24 wickets in three Tests powered India to a historic series victory over South Africa after 11 years. The fourth and the final Test is scheduled to be played in Delhi from December 3. FULL CRICKET SCORECARD: India vs South Africa 2015, 3rd Test at Nagpur
Ashwin ripped apart the South African batting line-up in the third game at Nagpur with his 12 wickets for just 98 runs. “Ashwin was once again India’s hero. He picked up 12 wickets in the match for just 98 runs. It was his 15th five-wicket haul in his short career and it is a remarkable feat,” Manjrekar was quoted as saying by the BCCI TV.
Manjrekar also compared Ashwin to India’s other spinners a s he said, “I think what separates Ashwin from Ravindra Jadeja and Amit Mishra is that Ashwin relies on flight and guile for his wickets. He even bowls slower with the new ball. Mishra and Jadeja don’t beat the batsmen too often with flight, but look to exploit the pitch more.” READ: Ravichandran Ashwin: I always aim for 5-wicket haul
The way Ashwin is bowling is a very good sign for Indian cricket. He can be successful overseas too. His performance proves that he has become a world-class bowler,” he signed off.