India's veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin revealed that he felt a need to diversify his game after the IPL 2024. Known for his exceptional spin bowling, Ashwin has also made a significant impact with the bat in the ongoing Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL). As captain of the Dindigul Dragons, he led the team to the final of the TNPL 2024, where they will face Shahrukh Khan's Lyca Kovai Kings. Ashwin is the third-highest run-scorer for Dindigul, with his innovative use of sweeps, particularly against left-arm pacers, drawing attention.
Reflecting on his decision to expand his batting skills, Ashwin said, "During the last IPL, I realised I needed to broaden my game and explore different areas of batting. I know I can hit the ball down the ground and use my feet, but I asked myself if I wanted to explore other options. Finding answers to this question has opened new avenues for me and kept me engaged in the game."
Ashwin's enhanced batting has been evident in the TNPL, where he has scored 200 runs in eight innings at an impressive strike rate of 167. At 37, Ashwin has effectively broadened his range as a batter in his first full season with TNPL. His ability to find boundaries has been utilised by the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL, where he was promoted up the order to ease pressure on finishers.