The first Test between India and Australia of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test series 2023 is just around the corner and former India coach Ravi Shastri has some sage advice for ace Indian spinner R Ashwin for the four-match series.

The top two ranked Test teams will collide for a chance to play in the finals of the ICC World Test Championship 2023.

One of the most important players for India will be spinner R Ashwin and for him, Shastri has a valuable piece of advice.

"One thing you don't want for him is to over-plan. He is good enough doing what he is. Sticking to that. He is a real crucial player here. His form will decide the series. Because Ashwin is a package not just with the ball, he will get some important runs as well. If he is on fire on both departments, that might well decide the outcome of the series. He is world class in most conditions. But in Indian conditions he can be lethal. If the ball is spinning and biting the dust, he has enough up the sleeves to trouble the batters. But you don't want him to over-think and try too many things. Just keep it there and let the pitch do the rest because it does a lot in India," Shastri said in an interaction organised by Star Sports.

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Also Shastri suggested India play Kuldeep Yadav as the third spinner in the XI in place of Akshar Patel.

"As far as the other spinner goes, I would like to see Kuldeep playing. You have got Ravindra Jadeja, Axar and him are pretty similar. Also, if you lose the toss and want the ball to spin then. if there is anyone who can spin the ball on day 1 it will be Kuldeep. If the track has not too much to offer, he can come into play. Also, roughs will be created with the Australian pacers bowling. He can take advantage," Shastri said.