Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has identified young all-rounder Harsh Dubey as the player he is most eager to watch during India’s upcoming one-off Test against Afghanistan, believing the youngster’s domestic and IPL performances have put him firmly in contention for a debut.
India will face Afghanistan in New Chandigarh from Saturday in a match that offers opportunities to several emerging players.
With veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja unavailable for the fixture, the selectors have turned to promising spin-bowling all-rounders Harsh Dubey and Manav Suthar.
Speaking on JioStar, Ashwin said he expects Kuldeep Yadav to shoulder the responsibility of leading India’s spin attack. He also underlined the importance of Washington Sundar,
noting that his control and ability to bowl extended spells could prove valuable on a deteriorating surface.
“Kuldeep Yadav will lead the spin attack against Afghanistan in the absence of Ravindra Jadeja. He has been bowling with great rhythm and confidence. His ability to turn the ball both ways and his experience in home conditions make him a huge threat. Washington Sundar will play the supporting role. He is more of a defensive, containing bowler who can also bat lower down the order. His accuracy and ability to bowl long spells will be useful on a wearing track. Both will be key to India’s success in this Test match,” Ashwin was quoted as saying.
Who Debuts For India Against Afghanistan?
Ashwin, however, reserved special praise for Dubey, who impressed during the domestic season and also enjoyed a productive IPL campaign with Sunrisers Hyderabad.
“However, my eyes will be on Harsh Dubey. I am curious whether he will get a chance. We will have to wait and see if the team goes with Manav Suthar or Harsh Dubey. But I am particularly interested in Dubey because of his strong domestic season. He also had a very good IPL season. Those performances work in his favour. I am looking forward to seeing him make his debut,” Ashwin added.
Dubey enters the contest with an impressive first-class record of 133 wickets and more than 1,000 runs, while Suthar has also established himself as one of the country’s leading domestic all-rounders.
With experienced names and exciting newcomers in the mix, the Afghanistan Test could provide a glimpse of India’s next generation of red-ball talent.
(With inputs from Agencies)
