Ravichandran Ashwin praised Delhi’s strength in depth after victory against Royal Challengers Bangalore.
The Capitals top the group following a comprehensive 59-run win in Dubai. They made 196 before bowling out their opponents to continue their fine form at IPL 2020.
The off-spinner was quick to highlight the way everyone in the team is making a contribution.
“I think we've got a pretty good side and everybody is putting their hands up,” he said at the post-match press conference.
“I thought initially we were a bit rusty getting into the tournament and even for me, it's been like five games to get my first four overs out. It's been quite an interesting year. I've bowled four overs for the first time today, so interesting and everybody is chipping in.
“That's one of the beauties of this particular Delhi Capitals side because even when my shoulder was dislocated, Amit (Mishra) came and played the role, now he's injured and Axar has come in and played the role.
“So, there is enough strength in that bench and sometimes when it comes to the IPL, the bench people coming off the bench becomes very, very important and that bench is probably enough to become another IPL team as well.”
Ashwin Highlights Axar
Ashwin was also full of praise for the way Axar Patel bowled against RCB after being handed his chance due to Mishra’s injury.
He said: “Sometimes what happens in T20 cricket is we tend to blow up images, stats and numbers of bowlers who get the purple cap, even likewise with the orange cap.
“Sometimes I feel it is too overrated in a game like T20 because it is somewhat like football where people are playing their roles and one such player is Axar.
“He always goes under the radar because he bowls those good overs, builds the pressure for someone else to capitalize on the wickets, so these are the heroes who get really appreciated inside the dressing room for us in Delhi Capitals.”
More Mankad Debate
The experienced off-spinner couldn’t help but reignite the Mankad debate after the RCB match.
The clash saw Ashwin warn Aaron Finch for backing up at the non-striker’s end.
He was criticized in last year’s tournament for running out Jos Buttler in the same circumstances. However, he has also been told by current DC coach Ricky Ponting that he does not agree with the move.
Despite that, Ashwin issued a final warning to IPL batsmen in a post-match tweet.
It read: “Let's make it clear!! First and final warning for 2020. I am making it official and don't blame me later on.”
