Former India opener Aakash Chopra slammed Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and veteran spinner R Ashwin after their one-sided defeat to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on April 11. CSK could muster only 103 runs off their 20 overs one of the lowest totals in IPL history and were unable to exert pressure with the ball as KKR overhauled the target in only 10.1 overs.
Ashwin, who was destined to be among the backbone bowlers of CSK’s spinner-friendly attack, persisted with poor form, yielding 30 runs in 3 overs. His powerplay over cost 12 runs, and in his following, he got smashed for a couple of sixes by Sunil Narine. Although purchased for INR 9.75 crore, Ashwin has picked six wickets only in five games with an astronomical economy of 9.90 and a bowling average of near 40.
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Chopra criticized the lack of faith in CSK’s bowling strategy and pointed out the team’s inability to deliver in crucial situations. CSK’s powerplay woes were glaring managing just 31 runs in the first six overs, while leaking 71 to KKR. Their spin combination of Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Noor Ahmed has fallen short, with Noor contributing 12 wickets on his own. CSK’s overdependence on spin now appears to be a tactical risk that has backfired.
“Chennai have to ask themselves this question – and R Ashwin as well: The way they bowled to Sunil Narine… Look, they couldn’t have won the match. But they could have gained some confidence with the ball,” said Chopra.
“They could have tried to execute their plans better. Not only did they lose the match, they also lost bowling confidence. That’s not good.
“Ashwin gave away 30 runs in three overs. I mean, Ashwin hasn’t bowled well throughout the season. He just adds salt to the wounds,” he added.
