The Indian team went in with just the one spinner in Ravindra Jadeja for the first Test against England at Trent Bridge. The former India batsman VVS Laxman however has backed off-spinner R Ashwin to be included in the second Test at Lord’s in London.

While the Indian skipper Virat Kohli had revealed that the playing XI for the first Test will arguably serve as a template for the rest of the series, Laxman believes that Ashwin's inclusion will provide a lot more depth and flexibility to the Indian bowling attack.

“I would definitely draft in R Ashwin into the playing XI. It will add depth to the Indian bowling and also versatility and different options to the captain. Irrespective of the weather forecast or the conditions.

R Ashwin is a more than capable bowler. He is skillful enough to perform, not only perform but to put in a match-winning performance and put pressure on the English batters,” the right-hand batsman told ESPNCricinfo.

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Virat Kohli while talking about Shardul Thakur’s selection had asserted that latter’s all-round abilities would benefit the team. Thus, the 46-year-old feels that Kohli is trying to give more responsibility to the right-arm quick.

While the Hyderabad-based batsman feels that either one of Ashwin or Thakur would be an ideal candidate for the all-rounder spot, he personally thinks Ashwin would be a better option.

“I think it is very clear that Virat Kohli wants to give a lot more responsibility to Shardul Thakur. Either of the selection will be spot on and will be good, but for my liking I would love to see Ashwin in the team,” Laxman signed off.

After drawn first Test, the second Test match between England and India will be played at the iconic venue, Lord’s in London from August 12.

(With ESPNCricinfo Inputs)