Ravichandran Ashwin urged Mumbai Indians to play both Mitchell Santner and AM Ghazanfar together in the much-awaited clash against Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Monday.
He said that Mumbai does not have too many Indian spin-bowling options available. The former Indian off-spinner also suggested that left-arm fast bowler Ashwini Kumar should be brought into the lineup to provide some support to Jasprit Bumrah. Ashwin also mentioned that captain Hardik Pandya probably doesn't have much confidence in Mayank Rawat's bowling skills, which is why he was not used in the last game against Punjab Kings, which Mumbai lost by seven wickets.
“MI don't have too many Indian spin options. So they have to play both the spinners, Santner and Ghazanfar. Mayank Rawat played the last game but didn't bowl a single over. This tells me the captain doesn't trust the guy with the ball. Also, bring in Ashwini Kumar to give some strength to Bumrah,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.
Bumrah has not been able to perform at his best this season. His economy rate in five matches has been 8.63, but the matter of concern is that he has failed to take even a single wicket.
Remove Phillips and bring in Jason Holder: Ashwin on Gujarat Titans' probable XI
Ashwin also suggested some changes in the Gujarat Titans team. Cricketer-turned-expert Jason Holder can be selected in place of Glenn Phillips. Additionally, if the Titans opt for a black-clay wicket, they considered opting for a second spinner in Sai Kishore or Manav Suthar. Both of them are left-arm spinners who can also contribute with the bat.
“They should still make changes in the overseas department. Remove Phillips and bring Jason Holder in. And if they are going to play on black clay wickets against MI, then a second spinner, Sai Kishore or Manav Suthar, can play. GT's strength is not his batting but his bowling,” Ashwin said (via the above source).
He concluded, “Playing Rabada is fine, but bring in Jason Holder for Phillips, and the team will be even better, as he is another good option with the new ball.”
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