R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja played instrumental roles in Team India’s dominance over the years, especially in Test cricket.
The duo, known for their bowling exploits, often saves India’s blushes with the bat. In the ongoing Test match against Bangladesh at Chepauk, Ashwin and Jadeja stitched a significant 199-run stand when the hosts were reeling at 144/6.
While Ashwin slammed a dazzling century (113 off 133), Jadeja returned with a crucial 86-run knock. Thanks to their efforts, India reached 376 in their first innings.
After the second day’s play in Chennai, Ashwin reflected on his partnership with Jadeja while also expressing his admiration for the southpaw.
"I always envy him. So gifted, so talented. He's found ways to maximise his potential. I wish I could be him, but I'm glad I am myself," PTI quoted Ashwin as saying to reporters during the post-day press meet.
"He is an exceptionally good cricketer. I'm happy for him. Likewise, in so many ways, I think watching him bat over the last couple of years has also given me insight on how better I can be," he added.
Despite their distinctive styles, Ashwin and Jadeja have managed to complement each other with the ball. During the home series against England earlier this year, they went past Anil Kumble-Harbhajan Singh to become the most successful Test bowling pair for India.
"He keeps it really simple. He can repeat it (bowling) day in and day out. So, both of us have grown together. Both of us have done some special things. We really value one another at this stage and both of us are enjoying each other's success more than ever before," Ashwin remarked.
India bundled out Bangladesh for a paltry 149 to take a healthy first-innings lead of 227 runs. The hosts were 81 for three at stumps, extending their overall lead to 308 runs.
While the fast bowlers did the bulk of the damage in Bangladesh's first innings, Ashwin and Jadeja are expected to play a critical role in the second essay to secure a win for India.
"I think there's a bit more up-and-down bounce. I would say the carry is there still. It's probably quickened up a touch (today) and then it's again gone on the slower side. I really do think as this game pans out, if at all it gets to the fourth-fifth day, it will turn for certain," the off-spinner said.
Ashwin elaborated that the key challenge moving forward will be to handle spin effectively, as the pitch is expected to assist spinners in the later stages of the match.
"But the challenge going ahead in this pitch would be to negotiate spin, as the surface in due course will be able to do its tricks on the batters," he said.
(With PTI Inputs)
