India spinner R Ashwin was at his best in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21. He picked second-most wickets for India and bagged 12 scalps playing just three Tests.
India captain Virat Kohli, who could play only one Test, enjoyed watching Ashwin bowl in the Test series. The off-spinner bowled superbly in Melbourne and picked up five wickets in the match.
India was under pressure after defeat in the first Test. But they fought back in the next game. Ashwin had troubled Australia's best batsman Steve Smith in the match. He received a text from Kohli after the match on his bowling performance.
"Well, he is one of the most vital parts of this team. After Melbourne, I sent him a text that this is the best I have seen you bowl overseas ever.
I remember we had a conversation in Adelaide as well, I said not people remember these small moments, in the first innings where Saha and Ash came out not out, Ash's intent was something that stood out for me," Kohli said.
Ashwin played a huge role in saving the third Test at Sydney but with the bat. He batted out with Hanuma Vihari to draw the match and showed his capabilities as a batsman.
Kohli revealed he had discussed with Ashwin about his batting before the Test series. "He had a conversation with us in the nets about his batting.
We both said 'you have so much more to provide for this team with the bat. That was one of your strengths. When we looked at you, we always felt like 30-35 guaranteed every innings'.
"If he gets going, he will score a crucial 70-80'. So, suddenly you saw his body language. It was like 'Hold on, this is my time, my tour now with the bat and with the ball'."
(India Today inputs)
