India's Test series against New Zealand has been nothing less than a disappointment. The only positive takeaway from the series is the bowling performance. On day two of the 3rd Test match, off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin was in a different form as he claimed three wickets and emerged to be one of the best bowlers of the team. Regarding his intent and bowling approach, former India batter Dinesh Karthik praised him and explained how good of a player he is.
"Today, I felt it for the first time this season. He was pushed to a place where he wanted to show, ‘no no, it’s enough. I've got to show my skill set.' I don't think he was anywhere close to his best even today, but it was great to see his ego being hurt as a bowler, and him showing how he feels when that happens," said Dinesh Karthik as quoted by Hindustan Times.
After New Zealand were bowled out for just 174 runs in the 2nd innings, India got a target of 147 runs. However, it seems like the Indian batters are struggling against the spin bowling. As we write, in just 81 runs, India have lost six wickets. Rishabh Pant is fighting hard for the team as he is batting on 45 runs. No other batter stood their ground in the 2nd innings, which is quite upsetting.
I saw a distinct body language: Dinesh Karthik
Ravichandran Ashwin was in a different mood on the 2nd day, as was quite evident in his body language. Karthik made a brilliant analysis regarding the player and his body language during an interview. Ashwin was wicketless in the 1st innings but went on to take three wickets in the 2nd innings which shows his talent and skillset. Plus, he did take a fabulous catch as well.
"I saw a distinct body language. If you followed Ashwin closely, he's not a Virat Kohli type of personality who is in your face and aggressive. But there's a certain body language when you know he really wants to do well, the way he celebrates when he picks up a wicket or the intensity that he feels," said Dinesh Karthik.