'He's like an app, keeps updating..' - Former England spinner lauds Ravichandran Ashwin for constant evolution in bowling

In the lead-up to the much-awaited Test series between India and England, former English spinner Monty Panesar has voiced his appreciation for India's spin maestro, Ravichandran Ashwin. Panesar, who played a crucial role in England's spin department throughout his career, compared Ashwin to a continuously updating application. He emphasized the off-spinner's capacity to evolve and incorporate new elements into his game.

Advertisment

During an interview, Panesar lauded the legendary India spinner and recognized the significant role the Indian spinner is anticipated to play in the forthcoming series, particularly considering India's home advantage. Panesar drew a comparison between Ashwin's adaptability and that of a sophisticated application, highlighting how he continually updates himself every six months.

“He’s like an app, he keeps updating every six months! That’s what he has done throughout his career. I always find that I am a student when it comes to Ashwin’s bowling. I feel I am continually learning something new about his bowling. That’s the asset Ashwin is. He is a brilliant bowler,” remarked Panesar.

The former English spinner also highlighted that Ashwin's continual refinement of his skills sets him apart as a remarkable performer and a formidable opponent for any batting lineup. The former England star admired Ashwin's bowling prowess, emphasizing the spinner's ability to introduce variations and stay ahead of the game.

Advertisment

England will travel with a personal chef to India

In December 2022, England encountered a challenging situation in Pakistan, with several players falling ill due to contaminated food. To prevent a recurrence of such incidents during their tour of India, the ECB has made a decision that might bring about significant changes in the way cricket teams undertake international travel in the future.

The famous Manchester United chef Omar Meziane has been enlisted as the personal chef for the England squad, ensuring that the players receive nutritious meals in line with their preferences. Given that Indian cuisine, known for its bold use of spices, can be a culinary challenge for foreign players, this move aims to streamline the dietary choices for the Ben Stokes-led England team. The decision is anticipated to save time and energy for the players, allowing them to concentrate more on the upcoming cricket series, which promises to be a demanding test of their skills.