Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Former India captain Sourav Ganguly is firmly of the opinion that Ravichandran Ashwin must play in the opening Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia in Perth. As India prepares to face Australia, two heavyweights in the world of Test cricket, the first match promises to be a thrilling contest.

However, the Indian team is dealing with injuries and the dip in form of some key players, making the selection process a difficult task for head coach Gautam Gambhir. This is especially true after India’s disappointing whitewash at home against New Zealand.

Ashwin’s Selection Still A Topic Of Debate

Ashwin’s omission from critical matches, including the 2023 World Test Championship final, has been a hot topic of debate among former cricketers and fans alike. The veteran off-spinner’s exclusion from key overseas encounters, despite his pedigree, continues to spark discussion.

With Perth traditionally offering a surface that favors fast bowlers, spinners have often found it challenging to make an impact. In a scenario where India is likely to field just one spinner, Ashwin’s spot in the playing XI is once again under scrutiny.

Also Read: Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Did India Miss A Trick By Not Including THIS Young Sensation?

Will Ashwin Play? Ganguly Weighs In

Despite recent setbacks, including a quiet performance in home conditions against New Zealand, Ganguly remains steadfast in his belief that Ashwin must play. The 38-year-old has faced criticism after a relatively underwhelming performance in recent Test matches, particularly in the home series against New Zealand, where he took only nine wickets in three Tests.

Ashwin failed to pick up a wicket in the first and third Tests, including a rare wicketless performance in the second innings of the series opener and the first innings of the final Test at Wankhede.

However, Ganguly argues that there should be no debate when it comes to Ashwin’s selection. For him, Ashwin is India’s best spinner, and he believes the off-spinner’s experience and skill make him the natural choice ahead of fellow tweakers Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar, both of whom impressed in India’s series loss to New Zealand.

According to Ganguly, “Your best spinner must play,” emphasizing the importance of relying on specialists in Test cricket. He also pointed out that Ashwin could prove crucial against Australia’s left-handed batters, who often struggle against his spin.

Ashwin’s Form And Competitiveness

While Ashwin’s recent form has been questioned, especially on home soil, his ability to take key wickets in overseas conditions remains significant. Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar both had stellar performances in the New Zealand series, taking 16 wickets each.

However, Ganguly argues that despite Ashwin’s recent dip in form, his vast experience and proven track record in Test cricket give him the edge. “Play with specialists,” Ganguly asserts, adding that Ashwin’s skill set makes him a strong contender for the first Test in Perth.

Also Read: Cheteshwar Pujara Back For The Border-Gavaskar Trophy?