Legendary spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed strong curiosity regarding the potential Test debut of left-arm spinner Harsh Dubey during India’s one-off Test against Afghanistan, slated to get underway on June 6 in Mullanpur.
Citing his stellar domestic season, Ashwin sees Dubey as a formidable option alongside Manav Suthar.
"My eyes will be on Harsh Dubey. I am curious whether he will get a chance. We will have to wait and see if the team goes with Manav Suthar or Harsh Dubey. But I am particularly interested in Dubey because of his strong domestic season.
"He also had a very good IPL season. Those performances work in his favour. I am looking forward to seeing him make his debut," Ashwin told JioStar.
With Ravindra Jadeja rested, Kuldeep Yadav will lead India’s spin attack in the solitary Test. Axar Patel is also missing the squad, leaving Kuldeep alongside Washington Sundar and the two newcomers.
"Kuldeep Yadav will lead the spin attack against Afghanistan in the absence of Ravindra Jadeja. He has been bowling with great rhythm and confidence. His ability to turn the ball both ways and his experience in home conditions make him a huge threat.
"Washington Sundar will play the supporting role. He is more of a defensive, containing bowler who can also bat lower down the order. His accuracy and ability to bowl long spells will be useful on a wearing track. Both will be key to India's success in this Test match," Ashwin added.
Ashwin also backed India skipper Shubman Gill to replicate his strong overseas batting form in home conditions, highlighting his technical adjustments and mature leadership.
"Shubman Gill had a fantastic series in England. As soon as he was made captain, he went there and delivered, both with the bat and with his leadership. He scored runs in tough conditions and handled the pressure of captaincy with maturity. That showed his class and his ability to bat long.
"He has worked hard on his technique, especially keeping his bat close to the pads, which helped him reduce the gap between bat and pad, making him more solid against the moving ball.
"Yes, he hasn't fired with the bat yet on home soil as captain, but with this change in his batting technique, I expect him to go all guns blazing at home too. His success in Test cricket will play a big role in redefining India's Test team. He is the kind of player who can lead the batting line-up for years to come," Ashwin remarked.
