Ashwin defends Kohli's return, criticizes 'Ranji Trophy is blessed' comment
What's the story
Former Indian cricket team player Ravichandran Ashwin has defended Virat Kohli's recent Ranji Trophy return. Despite Kohli's disappointing score of just six runs off 15 balls in less than 25 minutes, Ashwin believes the former India captain still has much to contribute to Indian cricket. He also criticized fans who sarcastically claimed the 'Ranji Trophy is blessed' due to Kohli's return after a 12-year absence. Here's more.
Praise
Ashwin lauds Kohli's motivation and commitment to Test cricket
Ashwin lauded Kohli's commitment and zeal when Delhi took on Railways in a match that was witnessed by more than 12,000 people on the first two days. "It's a great thing when it comes to Virat Kohli. He is extremely motivated. I know that" Ashwin stated on his YouTube channel 'Ash Ki Baat.' He further added, "But all said and done, the crowd that turned up, it was great. Such crowds should be there for every Ranji Trophy match."
Importance
Ashwin emphasizes the significance of Ranji Trophy
Responding to a tweet that suggested the Ranji Trophy was 'blessed' by Kohli's presence. Ashwin emphasized the importance of the tournament in shaping India's cricket landscape stating, "Players benefit from playing in the tournament. For cricket, players are not important, but for players, cricket is important." "I would just say, pay some attention. Do you even know the history of the Ranji Trophy? It has been going on for so many years. It has been a premier tournament," he said.
Recognition
Ashwin labels Sangwan as a 'gold-dust performer'
Ashwin also praised Railways pacer Himanshu Sangwan, who had dismissed Kohli during his Ranji Trophy comeback. He called Sangwan a 'gold-dust performer' and lauded his brilliant delivery which got Kohli out. "Himanshu Sangwan delivered a phenomenal ball. He is not an ordinary Ranji Trophy bowler. He is a tested performer. He further added, "He is a gold-dust performer. He bowled an exceptional delivery. There was a gap between pad and bat, it was a class delivery."
Admiration
Ashwin admires Kohli's 'enviable' fan base
India's second-highest wicket-taker in international cricket, Ashwin, also praised Kohli's massive fan following. "The fandom and love that Virat Kohli gets is enviable. I am so happy for Virat that he has these sorts of fans. Totally happy for Virat Kohli," he said. This was after hordes of fans queued up from 5:00 AM to watch their favorite cricketer return to the Ranji Trophy.