Ashwin and Jadeja Team Spirit Makes Selection Decisions Easier, Says India Assistant Coach Abhishek Nayar
India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar has praised senior players Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja for their understanding and support of team decisions, particularly when it comes to selection matters. Nayar, speaking ahead of India two-day practice match against Prime Minister XI, said that in teams where seniors struggle to accept their exclusion from the playing XI in favor of juniors, it can create challenges. However, with experienced players like Ashwin and Jadeja, such issues are easily navigated, thanks to their selfless commitment to the team success.
In the opening Test against Australia at Perth, both Jadeja and Ashwin, who together boast 855 Test wickets, were excluded from the playing XI, with Washington Sundar being preferred for his current form and batting capabilities on bouncy pitches. While it is unusual for Jadeja, given his all-round skills, to be left out, Nayar emphasized that Jadeja and Ashwin understand the team strategy and are always willing to put the team first.
It only tough when you have seniors who don’t understand it. But when you have seniors like Jaddu and Ash who understand what the team is trying to do, it becomes very easy, Nayar stated. The team-first policy, which is something Rohit and Gambhir believe in, makes it simpler for all involved.
Nayar expressed confidence that both Jadeja and Ashwin are not only accepting of their roles but are also committed to mentoring the younger players. I feel they have all bought into it. They are helping the younger guys do well here. It wasn’t very hard to explain to them because the culture is such that everyone wants Team India to win, he added.
Regarding the role of spinners, Nayar remained optimistic, stating that any top-class spinner would always have a chance, regardless of the conditions. He noted that the pink ball adds a new dimension to the game, but spinners will still have an opportunity to make an impact.
In a separate segment, Nayar shared his delight in the impressive debut of 22-year-old Harshit Rana, who took four wickets, including a stunning dismissal of Travis Head, in the Perth Test. Nayar revealed that he had observed Rana progress over two seasons with Kolkata Knight Riders and expressed pride in his journey from uncertainty to representing India.
Everyone in the dressing room is very happy for Harshit. Two years ago, he wasn’t even sure if he would make it to the U-23 team. And now, he representing India and excelling in his debut, said Nayar. He also credited Rana remarkable work ethic and resilience in overcoming injuries, highlighting his dedication to improving his game.
He worked very hard on his niggles, trained with us, played Ranji Trophy, and now has his moment. It feels great to see him grow from strength to strength, Nayar concluded.
