Test cricket, where patience and skill are paramount, few names resonate as profoundly as Ravichandran Ashwin and Virat Kohli. Both have carved out legendary careers, but when it comes to being a match-winner, Ashwin’s record might just edge out Kohli’s, especially in the context of Test cricket. Here are three compelling reasons why:
1. The All-Round Prowess:
Ashwin’s ability to influence a match with both bat and ball sets him apart. While Kohli’s batting has been nothing short of phenomenal, with numerous centuries and a reputation for turning games with his bat, Ashwin’s contribution extends beyond his bowling. His capability to score crucial runs, often under pressure, adds an extra dimension to his game. For instance, Ashwin’s recent century against Bangladesh in Chennai not only rescued India from a precarious position but also set the stage for a commanding total, showcasing his value as an all-rounder. This dual threat means R Ashwin can win matches in ways Kohli, primarily a batsman, cannot.
2. Bowling Mastery in Crucial Moments:
Ashwin’s bowling statistics speak volumes. With over 500 wickets in Test cricket, including 36 five-wicket hauls, he has often been the architect of India’s victories. His ability to break partnerships and deliver in the final innings of a Test match has been pivotal. Kohli, while an exceptional captain and batsman, doesn’t have the same direct impact with the ball. Ashwin’s bowling, especially in conditions that assist spin, has turned matches in India’s favor more frequently than Kohli’s batting alone could. His record-breaking achievement of being the first to combine 20 fifty-plus scores with 30 five-wicket hauls underscores his match-winning potential.
3. The Mental Edge and Tactical Acumen:
Ashwin’s cricketing brain is often cited as one of his greatest assets. His understanding of the game, combined with his ability to adapt to different conditions and opposition, makes him a tactical nightmare for opponents. Virat Kohli, known for his aggressive captaincy and leadership, has indeed transformed Indian cricket, but Ashwin’s contributions often go beyond the scorecard. His insights into the game, whether through bowling variations or setting fields, have been crucial in outsmarting opponents. This mental edge, combined with his skills, often results in match-winning performances that are less about brute force and more about strategic brilliance.
Impact of Virat Kohli on Indian cricket, especially through his batting and leadership, is monumental, Ravichandran Ashwin’s unique blend of bowling excellence, batting resilience, and cricketing intelligence might just make him a slightly bigger match-winner in the Test arena. Ashwin’s ability to influence games in multiple facets provides a broader spectrum of match-winning scenarios, making him, arguably, the more complete match-winner in Test cricket. This isn’t to diminish Kohli’s achievements but to highlight Ashwin’s often underappreciated but statistically and strategically significant contributions to the game.
