'Last IPL, I felt like I needed to...': R Ashwin opens up on changes in his T20 batting after 2 consecutive fifties in TNPL

India’s spin-bowling all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin is nicknamed ‘scientist’ for coming up with different tactics and always trying to evolve his game. In the ongoing Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL), the Dindigul Dragons captain has promoted himself up the order and tried to score at a rapid strike rate. Ahead of the TNPL 2024 final, Ashwin was asked about his impressive batting in the last two games. The veteran said that he understood the need to widen his game, something he realised during Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. 
 

"Look, everything is work in progress, right? You can even ask Shahrukh Khan [Lyca Kovai Kings captain] about it. How does he do power-hitting… how do you hit the ball through the off side and leg side? It's all about repetitions, and understanding angles and triggers,” Ashwin told the reporters in the pre-match press conference.
 

"Obviously, in the last IPL, I felt like I needed to widen my game and widen my horizons square of the wicket because I know I can hit the ball down the ground, and I can use my feet. Do I want to explore other options is something I had to ask myself. So if I can ask that question and if I can find an answer, it gives me a new avenue to explore and keep myself interested in the game," he added.
 

Ashwin’s numbers in TNPL 2024

The 37-year-old has scored 200 runs from eight innings at an average of 33.33. His strike rate is 166.66. Currently, he is the second-highest run-scorer for the Dragons. Shivam Singh is at the top with 360 runs from eight innings. 

ALSO READ: Mohammed Shami to play for this team before making India comeback from long injury layoff
 

Ashwin performs in must-win games

In the eliminator clash, he joined forces with Shivam and shared a 112-run partnership for the second wicket. Batting at no.3, he contributed with a 35-ball 57 featuring four fours and as many sixes. Dragons beat Chepauk Super Gillies by six wickets with just one ball to spare.

ALSO READ: Gautam Gambhir's decision questioned by ex-Pakistan player to send Washington Sundar to bat at no.4 during 1st ODI against Sri Lanka
 

In the Qualifier 2 against IDream Tiruppur Tamizhans, he made short work of the 109-run target and smashed an unbeaten 30-ball 69 laced with 11 fours and three sixes. Dragons won the game by nine wickets and 9.1 overs to spare. 
 

Ashwin would hope that he continues his form with bat when Dragons take on Lyca Kovai Kings in the final of TNPL 2024 on August 4 at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai.
 

MORE ON SPORTS TAK

Massive blow for Sri Lanka, superstar player ruled out of entire series ahead of 2nd ODI against India, replacement revealed

Ishan Kishan all set for domestic cricket comeback with this team after facing BCCI's brunt with central contract exclusion