India’s decision to leave out the world’s No. 1 Test bowler from the line-up in the summit clash has raised a lot of questions and divided opinions. This is the sixth consecutive Test match that Ashwin has been benched in England, with his last appearance in the country coming in the 2021 WTC final.

Despite his exclusion from the team, Ashwin showed he is a true team player and was spotted helping his teammates. Ashwin came out with drinks during the break for the team. He was also spotted giving some tips to Captain Rohit. Fans were quick to react to the viral image, in which many were sad to see him reduced to a water boy while others appreciated his commitment to helping the team.

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India haunted by 2021 WTC Final Mistake?

While India’s decision to play two spinners in the 2021 final against New Zealand was criticised, it is worth noting that that game happened in Southampton, with heavy rain hitting the city during the match and, apart from the last day, the entire day being played with grey clouds hovering around the city.

However, it is worth noting that the Oval is traditionally known to be one of the rare places in England where spinners get assistance. Moreover, the weather has turned out to be extremely sunny, with pacers growing ineffective as the day progresses.

Skipper Rohit stated at the toss that it was a hard decision to leave a match-winner like him out, but once done, it was in the interest of the team. Cricket legends like Ricky Ponting, Michael Vaughan, and Sourav Ganguly were critical of the decision.