Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin missed India's first home Test in over 15 years as he announced his retirement from international cricket earlier this year. However, his void was not felt as all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja displayed great character with bat and ball and helped India win the first Test against the West Indies by an innings & 140 runs.
Besides, the veteran, Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar Patel also chipped in with wickets, as India's spin trio were too good for Windies batters. After the game, Jadeja admitted that he missed his partner-in-crime Ashwin alongside him.
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"Obviously, we miss him. Ash has contributed so much to Indian cricket for so many years. He has been a match-winner. Playing a Test in India without Ash, somewhere it feels Ash would bowl no, but then the realization comes that he is not there," Jadeja said.
In a very candid and caring response, Ashwin told Jadeja not to miss him, as his presence in the playing XI might have enabled fewer wickets against West Indies for him.
"If I were playing, I would have taken 2-3 wickets from the ones he took, so he should not be missing me. Jitna faayda hai utna lena chahiye. (He should capitalize on whatever there is.). He is becoming a bona fide legend of Test cricket. I am really happy for him," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.
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Ashwin acknowledges Jadeja's new role in the team
The former India player also acknowledged the challenges Jadeja faces in navigating and guiding a largely new Indian side.
"After hearing his comments, I know he is showing affection, but more than anything else, I don't think he has anyone to talk to now. All of them are new boys. There used to be small talk between us, and when you reach a level of super seniority, you have to think before making small talk with the youngsters. He must be thinking whether the youngsters would judge him, but if Ash was here, he will not judge me. When Puji retired, I felt the same. We used to sit together," Ashwin added.
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