Thanks to his impressive exploits in the IPL 2022 season, Ravichandran Ashwin was considered for selection in India’s T20 World Cup squad last year.   

However, it doesn't seem like that the veteran off-spinner is in the selectors' scheme of things for the upcoming ODI World Cup. His last appearance in the 50-over format was during the tour of South Africa in January 2022.

With less than 50 days to go for the 2023 World Cup, Ashwin has made it clear that he isn’t thinking about his selection.

 "I don't think like that, because the selection of the team is not my job," Ashwin told TOI when asked if it affects him to not be considered for ODI World Cup selection.

"I had decided long back that I would not think about stuff that is not in my hand. I am honestly in a very good space in terms of life and my cricket and I try to keep negativity away from my thought process," he further said.

Ashwin, who was part of the 2011 World Cup winning team, wants to see India lift the coveted trophy again even if he is not a part of the side.

"I live for the day and I have no unfinished business. But it's true that I would love to see India winning the World Cup again, even if I am not playing," he remarked.

Ashwin also cleared the air regarding his old comment in an interview where he said that he contemplated retirement in the past.

"I think you are connecting two things. I did not consider retirement because of injury. That was also probably one of the reasons and I was not sure how I would be recuperating from it because I am not an expert at my body. And then there was some uncertainty around my career and I was just thinking like that. It is very easy to think negatively and that was one phase where I was probably thinking I would not be able to come back from it. It was just a thought and I just want to clarify on that. But right now, I feel I am bowling and batting really well and I have got a lot of experience in my kitty. I am taking one day at a time.

"Since Covid, it has been really busy, being inside bubbles and playing continuous cricket for the past three years. But this is actually the real break that I have got and I want to be at home, playing a little more club cricket and first-class cricket and then get ready for the next match that is there. For me, it is the South Africa series in December," he stated.