MUMBAI: Having helped Rajasthan Royals (RR) to a five-wicket win against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Friday with superb all-round performance, off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin was elated to get the chance to bat and make a 'double' contribution in the team's victory.
Ashwin claimed 1/28 with the ball as he helped RR claw their way back into the game after CSK had blasted 75/1 in powerplay, thanks mainly to Moeen Ali, who smashed a 19-ball half-century.
Ashwin then came back to contribute with the bat as well, scoring crucial unbeaten 40 runs off 23 balls as Rajasthan successfully chased 151 to secure a place in the playoffs.
"Feels like a million dollars. It was a special day for us. Finishing with a win and getting two bites of the cherry was important," said Ashwin after being adjudged 'Player of the Match' for his all-round performance.
The seasoned off-spinner said he had been promised that he would be promoted up the order in batting and get a chance to play in the powerplay if he worked on his batting.
"The communication (from the team management) was clear before the season on what I needed to work on. The management had ensured my role was well defined; I opened in practice games. I was told I'll play in the powerplay but not at the death (laughs)," he said.
About bowling in T20 matches, Ashwin said his role is to force the batters to take risks.
"In T20, you can't chase wickets. I have to make batters take risks. Sometimes they don't, and I'll have to bowl for the other end. I have understood the game well and am innovative," Ashwin said.
The 35-year-old from Chennai said that the CSK trainers and strength specialists have encouraged him to work on his physical fitness, which has resulted in him hitting three big sixes on Friday.
"I don't have enough power, credit has to go to Rajamani (Prabhu, Strength Specialist) and Zubin Bharucha. They've understood my nature and that I don't bat the same (in) every game. They've encouraged me and I've practiced a lot," said Ashwin.
About playing for a new franchise, Ashwin said, "I want to play my A-game for all franchises I play for. It's a mark of respect. Glad we're in the playoffs," he said.
