Ashwin is getting battle ready

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An improved ranking in the ICC charts to spearheading India to famous wins at home, Ravichandran Ashwin’s growth has been meteoric. India’s leading spinner opened out to Deccan Chronicle in an exclusive chat.

You are currently ranked No. 4 (ODI) and 18 in Test cricket, what do these numbers mean to you?
It is always nice to be appreciated and told where you stand among the best in the world. Once these numbers go up I know the expectations will grow as well and that again is a good sign. I have always done better when I am expected to. It is no doubt a happy feeling. However rankings should not bother you. Winning games for the country should remain top priority.

The World T20 is going to be a huge challenge for India. The team has not done well in the last two editions, is that additional pressure?
After winning in 2007 the going has been tough but as far as this edition goes, there are no strong favourites. Not many are giving us a chance now and that should actually work for us as it gives us more freedom to express ourselves strongly. This unit is used to the big stage and that should stand us in good stead.

Lately off-spinners have had an influential role to play in T20, how do you read the situation as a frontline spinner?
It is generally good to see that spinners are playing a crucial role in T20 which was seen as a batsman’s domain. It has helped me develop variations and also understand my own bowling better. Off-spinners can also operate with the new ball and that gives the captain more options to rotate the attack. We have a strong spin attack and we have enough experience in Sri Lanka. It is going to be a huge challenge and we are up for it as a team.

As a spinner how difficult it is to shift from one format to another?
I can only talk for myself here and I have to be honest to admit that it is never easy, especially because I change my action a bit for limited overs cricket. With a couple of practice matches and practice sessions in Colombo I am sure to get back in the groove. Bowling in T20 also requires a different mind set and at the highest level it can all boil down to mental strength.

The Test series against New Zealand saw you sticking mostly to your stock ball, was this a thought out decision?
In order to get the maximum out of variations, I have to be perfect with my off-break (stock ball). The carom ball or the top spinner is not as venomous as it is made out to be. It is my off break that is going to get me wickets in the longer versions, the variations come in handy when there is a partnership building and it can be used to instil doubt in the mind of the batsman.

: How important is the game in Chennai (on Tuesday) as this is the lone international the team will be playing before the World Cup?
It is very important in terms of a lead up to a major tournament. The result will generally show us what to expect and where to improve. A win will be a good confidence boost ahead of the main event. The IPL experience should also come in handy as we have played against most of the T20 specialists from all teams.