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India vs West Indies 2019: Ajinkya Rahane reveals reason behind R Ashwin's exclusion in playing XI
Ajinkya Rahane reveals the thought process behind R Ashwin's exclusion
Virat Kohli surprised one and all by leaving out premiere off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin from the playing XI for the first test against West Indies at Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground, Antigua. Instead, he opted for Ravindra Jadeja along with four fast bowlers.
Speaking to the media after the day's play Ajinkya Rahane said, "It's difficult to when you miss a player like Ashwin but team management is always thinking as to what is the best combination. They thought Jadeja was a good option on this wicket as we needed a sixth batsman, who can actually bowl. Vihari can actually bowl on this track. So that was the communication between captain and coach."
"It's hard to find players like Ashwin and Rohit Sharma sit out but it's all for the team."
Former skipper Sunil Gavaskar also lashed out at Team India's combination. He said, "A man with that kind of record, especially against West Indies. He doesn't find a place in this playing XI. That is stunning. Astonishing."
Ashwin has performed exceedingly well against West Indies. He has scored 553 runs with four centuries and has taken 60 wickets with four five-wicket hauls in 11 Tests.
Earlier, skipper Jason Holder won the toss and made India make first use of the conditions. At the end of the run-curtailed first day's play Team India managed 203 runs for the loss of 6 wickets with Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant, the last recognized pair still at the crease. Ajinkya Rahane saved India's day as he made 81 runs. For the home team, Kemar Roach picked up 3 wickets giving away 34 runs.
