IPL 5: The maverick spinner Ashwin is quietly confident

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It’s not without a reason that Ravichandran Ashwin is the most influential bowler in the IPL. The enviable economy rate of 6.03 is the all-time best in the league, add the stunning average of 19.82 and strike rate of 19 and that seals all arguments.

The ensuing season will be a stern test for Ashwin and the rest of the bowling unit as Chennai Super Kings have constantly raised the bar.

The 2011 campaign was not all easy for CSK. A string of wins at home guided them to the knockouts and then their big match temperament had the final say.

“The support here has been fantastic. But it is not reserved to the home side alone. The Chepauk crowd appreciates good cricket. Our home record does not add pressure, it actually pumps us to do better,” said Ashwin who along with skipper MS Dhoni joined the practice session on Monday.

A lot of interest and debate surrounded the slow wicket here. It even took some sheen away from CSK defending their title in style. There was no advantage according to Ashwin. “A slow wicket does not help anyone. The batsmen from both sides are going to find it difficult. The bounce was predominant till 2010 and lack of it last year only made the task of spinning the ball arduous,” added Ashwin.

The inclusion of Ravindra Jadeja has added teeth to the attack. The balance is now more pronounced and the options in front of Dhoni look larger. “Jadeja is a massive inclusion. I will certainly share what I know about this track with Jadeja. He has also played here before.

At the same time we should not forget the contribution of Shadab Jakati. The seam department also looks good. Bowling in T20 is all about hunting as a pack as we can always have an off-day,” explained Ashwin.

Chennai have been the most successful team in the league by some distance. Contribution from the local stars has been significant. Ashwin could not agree more. “There is a lot of pride in what we do. This is going to be another exciting edition. With teams getting new players, it will be hard to predict. I am sure all the nine teams will be eager and it all boils down to peaking at the right time,” said Ashwin.

The strip used for the practice games over the last two days has been sporting and that has gladdened Ashwin. “As a team we have adapted extremely well to all conditions and I heard the bounce is pronounced at the moment. This should suit us better as the batsmen will be able to express themselves better,” concluded Ashwin.