R Ashwin Raises Concerns Over India's Bowling Depth After West Indies Defeat
Ravichandran Ashwin has urged India to invest more in developing quality bowlers after the team failed to defend 249 runs against West Indies in the second T20I in Ranchi.
Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has raised concerns about India's bowling future after the team's six-wicket defeat to West Indies in the second T20I in Ranchi on Friday.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ash Ki Baat, Ashwin said India needed to focus more on developing quality bowlers. He warned that the team could not rely on Jasprit Bumrah alone to handle high-scoring matches.
Ashwin also pointed to a lack of defensive bowling options and game awareness during the match.
India posted 249/5, powered by Sanju Samson's 82 off 41 balls and Tilak Varma's 44 off 18 deliveries. However, West Indies chased down the target in 18.3 overs, finishing at 252/4.
Captain Shai Hope scored an unbeaten 102 off 45 balls, while Sherfane Rutherford smashed 84 off 37 deliveries. Their 120-run partnership for the fourth wicket proved decisive as West Indies levelled the five-match series 1-1.
Ashwin questions India's bowling tactics
Ashwin questioned India's decision to introduce Shivam Dube into the attack soon after the powerplay. He also suggested that wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav could have been brought on earlier.
Fast bowler Mayank Yadav had given India an early advantage by taking three wickets inside the powerplay.
India head coach Gautam Gambhir has also called for a better balance between bat and ball, while acknowledging that the team must find ways to defend large totals.
Ashwin's comments have renewed debate over India's pace-bowling depth, injury concerns and the need to develop reliable options beyond Bumrah.
