Just a few days are left for the high-octane Border-Gavaskar Trophy to begin. The first Test of the four-match Test series between India and Australia will be played in Nagpur, Thursday. Spin bowling will play a crucial role in India vs Australia Tests and also how senior spinner R Ashwin bowls in the contest will be important for the hosts, feels former India head coach Ravi Shastri. Ashwin is just a wicket away from completing 450 wickets in the longest format.
"One thing you don't want for him is to over-plan. He is good enough doing what he is. Sticking to that. He is a real crucial player here. His form will decide the series. Because Ashwin is a package not just with the ball, he will get some important runs as well. If he is on fire on both departments, that might well decide the outcome of the series. He is world class in most conditions. But in Indian conditions he can be lethal. If the ball is spinning and biting the dust, he has enough up the sleeves to trouble the batters. But you don't want him to over-think and try too many things," the former India cricketer said in an interaction organised by Star Sports.
"Just keep it there and let the pitch do the rest because it does a lot in India."
Shashtri asserted he prefers Kuldeep Yadav to be India's third spin option.
"As far as the other spinner goes, I would like to see Kuldeep playing. You have got Ravindra Jadeja, Axar and him are pretty similar. Also, if you lose the toss and want the ball to spin then. if there is anyone who can spin the ball on day 1 it will be Kuldeep. If the track has not too much to offer, he can come into play. Also, roughs will be created with the Australian pacers bowling. He can take advantage," Shastri said.