Former chief selector questions Ashwin's selection in India's squad for Asia Cup 2022

The return of R Ashwin to India's T20I squad for the Asia Cup came as a surprise for many fans.

Many cricket experts also questioned Ashwin's place in India's T20I squad given the off-spinner is considered a Test specialist.

Former chairman of the selection committee Kiran More questioned Ashwin's place in the squad and opined that Men In Blue should have gone with an extra seamer or a spinner with all-round capabilities.

Citing Ashwin's IPL record, More said that Shami or Axar Patel would have been a better choice for that role given the pacer can pick wickets with the new ball as well as with the old one while Axar can bat down the order.

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Ashwin picked up only 12 wickets in 17 matches during IPL 2022, and while he did score some runs for the Rajasthan Royals, it was his primary role as the bowler that came under scanner.

Notably, Ashwin first made it to India's squad for the 2021 World Cup after nearly four years. Then, he was not in India's scheme of things after the New Zealand T20I series at home. But he, once again, returned to the shortest format of game during the recent West Indies tour, where he picked up three wickets.