As India continue their ODI series against Afghanistan, one of the biggest talking points from the opening match has been the emergence of a promising young fast bowler. The youngster made an immediate impact on his international debut, validating the faith shown by the selectors when they picked him ahead of several established domestic performers.
The selection had initially sparked debate among fans and experts, with many questioning the decision. However, after a memorable first outing in Indian colours, former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has come out strongly in support of both the player and the selectors who identified his potential.
Ravichandran Ashwin backs selectors over bold selection call
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin praised the selectors for their ability to spot talent and highlighted the immense potential possessed by the young pacer Gurnoor Brar. According to the veteran spinner, the debutant’s pace, height and ability to move the new ball make him an exciting prospect for Indian cricket.
The former India all-rounder also addressed the criticism surrounding the selection process, particularly the discussions comparing Brar with Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi. Ashwin insisted that the focus should be on appreciating the selectors’ judgment rather than creating comparisons between players.
“Gurnoor Brar, we have to say that he is really impressive. He is tall, and it seems like he is quite strong too. He bowled every ball over 145 kmph. There is a massive upside. The skill, action, and swing he gets with the new ball, there is a lot of upside with him. He can bowl even faster, he is young. When the selectors chose Gurnoor Brar, and not Auqib Nabi, many people talked about it. I think it was a very good spot. This is not a comparison between them, but the selectors and the coaches who saw Gurnoor, they have to be praised, that is a really good eye. If he stays fit, and does all the right things, he can become a really big bowler for India in the future,” Ashwin said.
Ashwin impressed by Harsh Dubey’s fighting spirit
Apart from Brar, another player who caught Ashwin’s attention during the first ODI was debutant Harsh Dubey. The left-arm spinner endured a difficult start after conceding 16 runs in his opening over, but he showed remarkable character to bounce back and finish with three wickets. Ashwin, who has closely followed Dubey’s progress, admitted he was never surprised by the youngster’s ability to perform on the big stage.
“I know Harsh Dubey very well; there was no doubt in my mind that he would be a good player. He always fights, never backs down from a contest. He proved to be a little expensive, but the way he made a comeback, that is Harsh Dubey for you. He can also bat very well,” Ashwin said.
With India set to face Afghanistan in the second ODI in Lucknow on 17th June, both Brar and Dubey will be eager to build on their encouraging starts. Their performances have already generated plenty of excitement, while Ashwin’s endorsement has further strengthened belief that India may have unearthed two exciting prospects for the future.
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