Ravichandran Ashwin hasn’t quite lived up to his usual standards in the ongoing series against New Zealand. Known for his dominance on home soil, the 37-year-old has struggled to make an impact in the first two matches. However, Ashwin showed signs of a comeback with a crucial 3-wicket haul in New Zealand's 2nd innings of the third Test.
Former Indian wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik, speaking during commentary, noted that while Ashwin may not yet be at his peak, his recent performance indicates some good signs. Karthik remarked that Ashwin’s “ego has been hurt,” and today’s showing was a glimpse of how he responds when challenged.
Speaking on commentary, Katthik said, “I saw a distinct body language. If you followed Ashwin closely, he's not a Virat Kohli type of personality who is in your face and aggressive. But there's a certain body language when you know he really wants to do well, the way he celebrates when he picks up a wicket, or the intensity that he feels,”
“Today, I felt it for the first time this season. He was pushed to a place where he wanted to show, ‘no no, it’s enough. I've to show my skill set'. I don't think he was anywhere close to his best even today, but it was great to see his ego being hurt as a bowler, and him showing how he feels when that happens.” the former Indian wicket-keeper batter added
In the 3rd Test at Wankhede, Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja delivered a familiar sight, dismantling New Zealand’s batting lineup in tandem. Ashwin claimed 3 wickets while Jadeja led the attack with a stunning 5-wicket haul, achieving a 10-wicket tally in the match. Their combined efforts bowled out the visitors for 174, leaving India with a 147-run target after gaining a 22-run first-innings lead.
However, India’s chase didn’t start smoothly, facing early setbacks that left them needing 55 runs with only 4 wickets in hand. Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar are currently at the crease, with Ashwin likely to play a crucial role in steering India toward victory and avoiding a whitewash at Wankhede.
