R. Ashwin Reveals Sneaky Tactics of Using Media Friends to Gain Insights into Opposition Players

March 5, 2024 0 427

Ravichandran Ashwin shared his unconventional approach to gaining an edge over batters, admitting he utilizes media footage to study their practice sessions.

Seasoned off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has revealed his unconventional strategy for gaining an upper hand over batters. In a recent interview with Jio Cinema alongside Anil Kumble, Ashwin admitted to acquiring practice footage of opposition players through media personnel.

“Sometimes I make friends with the media guys and get footage from the backside when the batters are practicing in the nets,” Ashwin disclosed.

“When I went to Australia, there were occasions where Marnus [Labuschagne] and Smith were using their feet and going back in the nets. It really works because I feel human beings are very insecure. The moment they know you have them figured out, you’re winning half the battle,” he added.

The veteran off-spinner claimed this practice, which involves delving into the minds of batsmen through practice footage, contributed to his success as seen against prominent Australian batsmen like Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith during India’s 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy tour. He believes observing Labuschagne and Smith attempting to counter his tactics in the nets gave him a significant advantage.

Ashwin’s strategy has undoubtedly added to his impressive tally of 507 test wickets. The spinner remains set to continue showcasing his skills in the upcoming Test match between India and England at Dharamsala on March 7th, aiming to strengthen his cricketing legacy.