Ravichandran Ashwin reflects on Sanjay Manjrekar’s critique and its impact
Ashwin’s candid admission
Ravichandran Ashwin, the former India off-spinner, recently shared insights into his relationship with commentator Sanjay Manjrekar, revealing that a critical article from Manjrekar after his initial tour of Australia caused him significant hurt and anger. This critique led to a period of silence between the two for several years.
Ashwin recounted that he read Manjrekar’s extensive article upon his return from the tour. He admitted that while anger was a reaction, he primarily felt deeply saddened by the commentary. This initial criticism, according to Ashwin, ultimately served as a catalyst for personal and professional growth, prompting him to work diligently on his game.
Manjrekar has been known for his outspoken opinions, which have sometimes led to disagreements with players and fans. Notably, he referred to Ravindra Jadeja as a ‘bits-and-pieces cricketer’ during the 2019 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. Manjrekar also made comments regarding Virat Kohli‘s performance during a challenging period, suggesting that Kohli was sensitive to criticism.
Ashwin’s experience mirrored those of other prominent players who have faced Manjrekar’s analytical style. He highlighted how public commentary can significantly affect how players perceive experts.
The turning point in their relationship
The critical article by Manjrekar followed Ashwin’s first Test tour of Australia during the 2011-12 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. During this series, Ashwin secured nine wickets across three matches. Despite being India’s third-highest wicket-taker in the series, his performance did not quell critics who questioned his effectiveness in overseas conditions.
Ashwin, who was 39 years old at the time of his remarks on JioHotstar’s ‘Cheeky Singles’, explained that he avoided communication with Manjrekar for approximately four years after the initial critique. He stated that he dedicated himself to improving his game during this period, acknowledging that he did not consider himself a naturally gifted athlete.
The dynamic between Ashwin and Manjrekar shifted in 2015. Manjrekar authored another article, this time praising Ashwin’s bowling performances. This positive assessment prompted Ashwin to reach out to Manjrekar. Ashwin messaged him, expressing that the earlier critical article had been instrumental in changing his life.
Ashwin noted that he consistently seeks to learn from criticism. This approach allowed him to internalize Manjrekar’s initial comments and use them as motivation to enhance his fitness and overall game. The reconciliation marked a significant moment, with Ashwin acknowledging the profound impact of Manjrekar’s words on his work ethic over the preceding years.
Ashwin’s illustrious career
Ashwin concluded his international career after the third Test between Australia and India, which ended in a draw at the Gabba. He retired as India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, accumulating 537 wickets. His Test record includes 37 five-wicket hauls and 8 ten-wicket hauls, achieved at an average of 24.00 and an economy rate of 2.83 across 106 matches.
Across all formats of international cricket, Ashwin finished with a total of 765 wickets. This tally places him as the second-highest international wicket-taker for India. His overall international bowling statistics include an average of 25.80 and an economy rate of 3.38 over 287 matches.
His 765 international wickets comprise 537 Test wickets, 156 ODI wickets, and 72 T20 International wickets. Following his international retirement, Ashwin continued his involvement in cricket through other formats, including an appearance in Major League Cricket. He was also signed for the Big Bash League in a previous season but missed the tournament due to an injury.
Source: newsable.asianetnews.com
