R Ashwin Set to Play His First Test in Perth

Ravichandran Ashwin is all set to play his first Test in Perth on November 22, marking his fifth tour of Australia. The record-breaking off-spinner missed out on both occasions India played in the city on his previous visits.

A Change in Attitude Towards Ashwin

Ashwin is expected to play as the lone spinner with Nitish Kumar Reddy making his Test debut as a seam-bowling all-rounder. This marks a change in attitude towards the veteran, with selectors opting for Ravindra Jadeja as the first-choice spin option outside the subcontinent for the last 3-4 years.

Ashwin's Performance in Australia

While Ashwin's overall record in Australia is not impressive, averaging 42.15 for 39 wickets across 10 Tests, his performances on the last couple of tours have played a crucial role in setting up series wins for India.

Significance of Ashwin's Inclusion

Ashwin's inclusion is a significant show of faith in his world-class skills, particularly on a pitch that has suited Nathan Lyon and the Australian fast bowlers. This will be his first Test outside the subcontinent or the Caribbean since the Adelaide Test of 2018.

Ashwin's Preparation

Ashwin skipped the press conference on Wednesday to rush to the nets and have a bowl. He then walked out to have a chat with the curator and had a bat. On Thursday, he was the last to leave the Optus Stadium, walking out to analyse the pitch alongside his trusted confidant, Hari.

Impact on the Team

Ashwin's inclusion could mean a promotion in the batting for him unless Reddy is preferred at No 7. It'll also be interesting to see how he goes with Jasprit Bumrah at the helm, the first time in his career that he'll play under a bowling captain.