Ashwin’s variations will consistently trouble Australian batters: Irfan Pathan

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan said that Ravichandran Ashwin's variations will constantly trouble the Australian batsmen during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Ashwin took eight wickets as India beat Australia by an innings and 132 runs in Nagpur.

Pathan said that Ashwin's variations will worry the Australians while adding that we will see glimpses of Ashwin picking up wickets repeatedly throughout the series. "They are not going to work as well. You will see these sights repeatedly in this entire series, whether there is more or less help from the pitch. His variations will consistently trouble them,” said Pathan.

The former cricketer said the introduction of a left-arm paceman like Mitchell Starc will help Ashwin even more as the tough will be closer to the stumps. "Remember one thing - a left-arm bowler didn't play in this match. If Mitchell Starc plays in the next match, Ashwin will be even happier while bowling because he will get the rough closer to the stumps. The combination of a left-armer and a right-arm off-spinner is amazing. He is from Australia but will help Ravichandran Ashwin more,” Pathan added.

Speaking about India's second Test against Australia, Ashwin said he expects to come back stronger and insisted that the next match will be different. "I expect Australia to come back really hard and strong. They are a world-class side. This game, we just batted beautifully and batted deep even today. 220 is a lot of runs. The next game would be different, I am looking forward to it," said Ashwin.