VVS Laxman suggests two changes in the playing XI that played the first test in Nottingham

It was a big surprise to VVS Laxman and many other cricketers to see Ravichandran Ashwin not playing in the first test of this India tour of England. The first test between India and England happened in Nottingham. It has been the biggest debate over whether it was right or wrong to not play Aswin in the first test. The discussion over this topic will continue from both sides as we head to the second test that is happening in Lord’s on Thursday.

The former Indian cricketer VVS Laxman felt that Ravichandran Ashwin needed to be drafted into the playing XI at least from the second test onwards. Laxman told to ESPN Cricinfo that “I hope they will make the right call by taking Ashwin in the XI”.

It was very rare to see as India went in with four fast bowlers and lone spinner Ravindra Jadeja, who is also the all-rounder in the side. But with Shardul Thakur is struggling with a hamstring injury, a former Indian batsman feels that Ashwin should come in as a replacement into the playing XI.

VVS Laxman stated that “I would bring Ashwin in place of Shardul Thakur. Laxman added by saying that Ashwin is one of the highest wicket-taker among the best spinners in world cricket. He is very expert in adapting to different conditions”.

“I have mentioned this before that he is a more than capable bowler to perform in any condition. He’s a skilled bowler. He is someone who has over 400 wickets. Anyone who has that many wickets know how to adapt to different conditions. Ashwin will add variety and strength to the bowling line-up”, Laxman added.

Ashwin has shown improved performance in SENA countries in recent times. Look at his performances in the SENA countries from the year 2018, the off-spinner has picked up 43 wickets in 12 tests played there. And also with an average of 28.23. It is a tremendous improvement from 56.58.

He also highlighted the factor Ashwin can contribute with the bat, that increases the depth in the batting line-up.

VVS Laxman said that “He can also contribute with the bat, we know that he’s got 5 test hundreds. Ashwin will give Virat Kohli options irrespective of what type of conditions they play in”.

Laxman also suggested another chance in the playing XI that played a Test against England in Nottingham apart from Ashwin that is Ishant Sharma. He said Ishant Sharma should come in place of Mohammed Siraj if he is completely fit for the second test. Ishant missed the first test in Nottingham against England due to niggle injury.

Laxman further added by saying that “If Ishant Sharma 100% fit then straight away he comes in place of Siraj. But if Ishant is not 100% then I would back Siraj to play after seeing how he bowled in Nottingham. You don’t want to risk Ishant as he is such an important member of the team”.