IPL 2022: ‘Feels like a million dollars’ – Ashwin after taking Rajasthan Royals to playoffs
IPL 2022: After leading Rajasthan Royals (RR) to a five-wicket win over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Friday, off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin was ecstatic to get the chance to bat and contribute a ‘double’ to the team’s success.
After CSK had blasted 75/1 in powerplay, owing largely to Moeen Ali’s 19-ball half-century, also Ashwin claimed 1/28 with the ball to help RR claw their way back into the game.
After that, Ashwin returned to bat, scoring a crucial unbeaten 40 runs off 23 balls to help Rajasthan chase down 151 runs and secure a playoff berth.
“Feels like a million dollars. Also it was a special day for us. Finishing with a win and getting two bites of the cherry was important,” said Ashwin after being adjudged ‘Player of the Match’ for his all-round performance.
The seasoned off-spinner claimed he had been assured that if he improved his batting, he would be promoted up the order and given a chance to play in the powerplay.
“The communication (from the team management) was clear before the season on what I needed to work on. The management had ensured my role well defined; I opened in practice games. I told I’ll play in the powerplay but not at the death (laughs),” he said.
In T20 matches, Ashwin said his role is to force batters to take risks.
“In T20, you can’t chase wickets. Also I have to make batters take risks. Sometimes they don’t, and I’ll have to bowl for the other end. I have understood the game well and am innovative,” Ashwin said.
The 35-year-old from Chennai claimed the CSK trainers and strength specialists encouraged him to improve his physical fitness, which he did on Friday by hitting three massive sixes.
“I don’t have enough power, credit has to go to Rajamani (Prabhu, Strength Specialist) and Zubin Bharucha. They’ve understood my nature and also that I don’t bat the same (in) every game. They’ve encouraged me and I’ve practiced a lot,” said Ashwin.
About playing for a new franchise, Ashwin said, “I want to play my A-game for all franchises I play for. Also it’s a mark of respect. Glad we’re in the playoffs,” he said.
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