The Indian fanbase was almost certain of team India lifting the T20 World Cup 2022 trophy in Australia after Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue qualified for the semi-finals as the top-placed side in group 2. Unfortunately, India suffered a heartbreaking 10-wicket defeat against England, eventually getting knocked out of the tournament. Like many other former cricketers and cricket experts, Danish Kaneria, ex-Pakistan player, shared their take on India’s loss.
Kaneria, who retired from international cricket almost 10 years ago, clearly mentioned that Ashwin should stick to playing only in Tests.
“Ravichandran Ashwin didn’t deserve to play in this T20 World Cup. He cannot do well in Australian conditions. He should only play Test cricket. Virat Kohli did the right thing when he was the captain, reserving Ashwin only for the longer format. T20 cricket is not his cup of tea. Being an off-spinner, he can’t bowl off-spin,” Kaneria was quoted as saying on his YouTube channel.
Kaneria also suggested India should have used Rishabh Pant properly by promoting him up in the batting order.
“India played Rishabh Pant in this game. But if they brought him in, they should have at least utilised him well. They could have promoted him higher up the order. He should have been sent after KL Rahul’s dismissal. What is he going to do when he gets a chance to bat in the 19th over?” he added.
Here’s how R Ashwin performed in T20 World Cup 2022
Ashwin’s inclusion in the Indian team was quite surprising for everyone as he hadn’t played a single white-ball game for team India since the start of the year, until August.
The senior off-spinner was ineffective with the ball, taking just six wickets in five matches at an average of 25.83 and an economy rate of 8.15. However, he contributed with two valuable innings with the bat, scoring winning runs off the final ball against Pakistan, and a crucial 13-run cameo off six balls against Bangladesh.