I have evolved as cricketer says Ashwin on the eve of his 50th test

Reuters: On the eve of his 50th test match, Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin on Monday (24 July) said he had become a better cricketer over the years.

Though Indian team has not named the squad for the first match against Sri Lanka that begins at Galle on 26 July, Ashwin’s inclusion is certain.

The off-spinner, who became the fastest bowler to take 250 wickets in Test cricket earlier this year, said he had matured a lot from the last time he toured the island nation.

India’s preparation has been less than ideal this time, too, with head coach Anil Kumble stepping down last month citing a breakdown in his relationship with skipper Kohli.

Former all-rounder Ravi Shastri was named as head coach last week, while Bharat Arun was appointed bowling coach and Sanjay Bangar was named assistant coach, following Shastri’s recommendations.

Colombo hosts the second test from 3 August while the third and final match is scheduled to take place at Pallekele from 12 August.

Indian opening batsman Lokesh Rahul has been ruled out of this week’s first test against Sri Lanka in Galle with viral fever, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced on Monday.

Abhinav Mukund is expected to replace Rahul at the top of the batting order alongside Shikhar Dhawan.