Former Indian Player Wasim Jaffer Advocates for Ravichandran Ashwin’s Inclusion in World Test Championship Final Starting XI

Former India player Wasim Jaffer says whatever happens in the starting XI against Australia in the World Test Championship final at The Oval, former Indian player Wasim Jaffer says. Jaffer made his comments amid uncertainty whether Ashwin will play today or not.

Ravichandran Ashwin has taken the most wickets in the 2023 Border-Gavaskar Trophy – 25 wickets at an average of 17.28. He also completed over 100 Test wickets against Australia in that series. Although Ashwin did not play for India when they played their last Test against England at the Oval in September 2021, Wasim Jaffer believes the 36-year-old should be a must-choice for the final clash.

Speaking exclusively to Sportskeeda ahead of the WTC final, Wasim Jaffer said:

“I have heard that the weather will be pleasant for the first three days with a temperature of 26-27. Usually on the oval you try to play a few spinners. So I feel it is imperative that Ashwin plays here, no doubt about it. Usman Khawaja, David Warner and Travis Head are left-handers playing in the top three positions. So Ashwin will be able to get them out easily.”

Jaffer mentioned that India should play three seamers and two spin bowlers well, including Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja.

The former batter added:

“I will actually go with three fast bowlers and two spinners. If the ball is turning on the fourth or fifth day, Ravindra Jadeja can be a lethal bowler to face even for left-handers. Ashwin also bats well so you can pick both.”