In the eighth IPL 2023 game, Jos Buttler broke his little finger on his left hand. As a result, Ravichandran Ashwin was given the opportunity to open the batting in his place. Yusuf Pathan, a former India all-rounder, was greatly startled by this since he had anticipated Devdutt Padikkal opening alongside the young Yashasvi Jaiswal. Project Ashwin, meanwhile, was a complete failure because the 36-year-old batted only four deliveries before being dismissed without adding to his total.
The two-time world champion added that Rajasthan might have won the game by more than five runs if Padikkal had started. Instead, Rajasthan lost by just five runs.
“I was taken aback to see Ravichandran Ashwin lead off.” Padikkal was supposed to open, but they chose Ashwin instead. Given that Padikkal has been using the new ball for several years, the outcome might have been different if he had started the inning.
When compared to No. 4, his numbers as an opener are significantly better, according to Yusuf Pathan, who was quoted by India Today.
Also, the ex-cricketer noted that Ashwin performs well against the old ball and less so against the new ball.
“After ten overs, when the ball started to get a little older, RR could have employed Ashwin. He can play some shots and is an excellent cricketer. He would have been more suitable for that role. It is never preferable to have an opener who has some expertise since facing the new ball isn’t simple, continued Pathan.
Prabhsimran Singh should be commended: Ismail Pathan
In addition, the ex-cricketer praised Prabhsimran Singh, who scored 60 runs off just 34 pitches. The Punjab Kings scored 197 runs after 20 overs because of his outstanding start and partnership with Shikhar Dhawan.
Pr Bhsimran Singh should be commended. His shot selection and the way he formed a strong opening partnership with Shikhar Dhawan were both very remarkable, according to Pathan.
After two straight victories, the Punjab Kings will now play Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 9 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in their upcoming match.
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