Former Indian cricketer R Ashwin has given his take on the criticism players like Harshit Rana have received. Harshit has been subjected to plenty of criticism of late after his inclusion in the squad for the white-ball series against Australia. Ashwin also provided his opinion on why Harshit was selected in both the the white-ball squads.
"Why they are selecting him, I am not sure. I would love to be in the selection meeting to know the reason behind his inclusion. From my side, the reason I see
is - In Australia we need that fast bowler who can bat. Someone trusts that he can bat, which is why they are selecting him as a potential No. 8," stated Ashwin in a video on his YouTube channel.
Ashwin made it clear that criticism should be always done on the basis of performances and must not turn into a personal war. He also reflected on how Sanjay Manjrekar used to criticise him constantly during his playing days.
“I have always reiterated that no player should be attacked below the belt. When the attack becomes too personal, the genre changes. I would like to talk about Sanjay Manjrekar. He has criticised me throughout my career. But I have never held any grudge against him. What they say might be right or wrong, as long as the criticism doesn't get personal, I am fine with it,” he added.
Harshit has been selected for both the ODI and T20I squads. India will kickstart their tour Down Under with the first ODI on Sunday, October 19. Three ODIs will be followed by five 20-over matches. The Men in Blue are currently in Perth and are preparing for the series-opening clash which will be held at the Perth Stadium.
