'We Will Come Back To You': Ashwin Reveals Rohit's Message Before ODI World Cup 2023 Call-up

The sudden addition of Ravichandran Ashwin to India's ODI World Cup 2023 roster came on the last day of squad confirmation, taking Axar Patel's position due to injury. Ashwin was included in India's playing eleven for their opening game against Australia on Sunday in Chennai. He returned with statistics of 1/34 in his ten overs.

Virat Kohli played a knock of 85 runs in pursuit of 200 runs, while KL Rahul hit an undefeated 97 as India opened their campaign with a six-wicket victory over Australia.

Before being included in the squad, the veteran spinner recalled receiving a call from head coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit Sharma, who assured him they will get back to him.

"It was more like a May day call, I was chilling at home, played a couple of club games but Rohit and Rahul [Dravid] had told me that if there is a situation we will come back to you, I just told them jokingly that hope you never come back to me [smiles]," Ashwin stated following the game.

Ravindra Jadeja took three wickets for India, while Kuldeep Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah both claimed two wickets.

When Ashwin took a wicket at his home ground, it acted differently than usual, surprising him. The seasoned bowlers praised Jadeja, a colleague, after his outstanding 3/28 spell.

"In Chennai, I was an avid cricket player. It's a pitch with many of cracks, very different from Chennai's. You witnessed the second innings bowling of Hazlewood and the Australians. To be honest, we were a little worried about how things would work out. Here, the crowd constantly rallies behind us. Fortunately, we lost the toss, and once Jadeja got the ball, he took off," Ashwin remarked.

"It's not only about the tempo; bowlers find it challenging to bowl at a specific rate. It's about positioning my body correctly, getting the sidespin and overspin just perfect, and all of these things. For me, it's about getting that right. To get that correct, it normally takes me six to eight balls," he continued, discussing the improvements he had made to his bowling.

In response to a question of how his performance will be evaluated by all, Ashwin stated, "I have to select my Whatsapp messages and visit Twitter to learn more." However, I must refrain from using social media [smiles]."

"Everyone in my neighbourhood said you would win us the World Cup the day I was selected. I was like, "Dude," grinning. I shall be content as long as I am performing for India. I want to keep delivering because I've been playing for 13 years," he continued.