‘Leader’ Ashwin still valuable in all formats: Laxman
Ashwin is a very valuable player in all three formats. He is someone who is a leader, and I always respect players who not only do well, but are also leaders.
VVS LAXMAN, on Ashwin’s capability as a leader in the side
VVS Laxman believes Ravichandran Ashwin is still a key member for India in all three formats and his leadership will be an added boost. The former India batting stalwart believes India’s leading Test bowler will be determined to return with a bang when he is recalled to the ODI side.
Ashwin, 30, and Ravindra Jadeja were rested for the limited-overs series in Sri Lanka where wrist spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzhvendra Chahal and left-arm Axar Patel did well.
“Ashwin, the way he has had success in Tests, the success has not been the same in one-dayers,” Laxman told Hindustan Times on the sidelines of a promotional event of STAR India.
“But having said that, over the last two years he has not been a regular member of the ODI side. That is why it is very tough to judge a player’s performance, if he is not given a long rope.
“But I still feel Ashwin is a very valuable player in all the three formats. He is someone who is a leader, and I always respect players who not only do well, but are also leaders within the group, and that is what Ashwin is.”
Earlier, in a media interaction, Laxman said Ashwin must have received a clear message from the selectors. “They could have told Ashwin and Jadeja, to give the youngsters opportunity. Especially, after the Champions Trophy to give two wrist spinners the chance.”