As India and Australia prepare for the 2024 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, all eyes are on Ravichandran Ashwin. Experts expect the Indian off-spinner to be key in the opening Test at the Optus Stadium in Perth. He is the only spinner. With the series vital for both teams’ WTC final hopes, Ashwin will be under intense scrutiny.
Ashwin is one of cricket’s great spinners. But, his record in Australia raises questions. Let’s dive into the statistics and analyze his impact Down Under ahead of the series opener.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s Career Achievements
Before looking at Ashwin’s performance in Australia, his career deserves mention. It is stellar. Across 105 Tests, Ashwin has claimed an impressive 536 wickets at a remarkable average of 23.95. He has 37 five-wicket hauls. He’s taken 10 or more wickets in a match eight times. These stats place him among the game’s legends.
His record in Australia paints a different picture. He’ll look to make a statement in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s Record in Australia
Ashwin’s Stats in Australian Conditions
- Matches Played: 10
- Innings: 18
- Wickets Taken: 39
- Bowling Average: 42.15
- Best Innings Figures: 4/55
- Best Match Figures: 6/149
Ashwin’s bowling average in Australia is 42.15. This is a big drop from his career average and his usual dominance. Moreover, he has yet to claim a five-wicket haul in an innings on Australian soil.
Notable Performances in Australia
Ashwin has had few standout moments in Australia. But, his potential has shown through at times.
- Sydney (2015): Ashwin took four wickets in his first Test in Australia, at the SCG, in the New Year Test.
- Adelaide (2018-19): In the first Test of India’s 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy win, Ashwin took six wickets (3/57 and 3/92).
- Adelaide (2020-21): Ashwin took four wickets in the pink-ball Test. It helped India bowl out Australia cheaply in the first innings.
These performances show he can make an impact. But, they highlight a lack of a game-defining spell in Australia. He will look to achieve that in the upcoming series.
Why Ashwin’s Role in Perth Is Crucial
Australia has many left-handed batsmen. So, they chose to play Ravichandran Ashwin as the only spinner in Perth. Ashwin’s off-spin has been effective against left-handers. His experience could help against players like Warner, Khawaja, and Head.
Also, people know Perth’s Optus Stadium for its pace and bounce. Those conditions could challenge Ashwin to adapt his craft. A strong showing in the first Test could set the tone for Ashwin and the Indian team. They want to take the lead in the five-match series.
Challenges for Ashwin in Australian Conditions
- Australian wickets, especially in Perth, provide an advantage for fast bowlers. Spinners get little help.
- Lack of Support: Ashwin is the only spinner. He must control runs and take wickets, especially in long spells.
- Australia’s top order can handle spin. So, Ashwin must outthink and outmaneuver them.
The Stakes Are High
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is more than the India-Australia rivalry. It affects both teams’ chances of reaching the ICC World Test Championship Final. India enters the series after strong performances. Ashwin’s skill in tough conditions could be key.
Key Takeaways
- Ravichandran Ashwin has a career bowling average of 95, but his average in Australia rises to 42.15.
- He has not yet taken a five-wicket haul in 10 Tests in Australia.
- His best figures in Australia are 6/149. It was in Adelaide during the 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
