Muttiah Muralitharan calls Ravichandran Ashwin a smart cricketer

Muttiah Muralitharan calls Ravichandran Ashwin a smart cricketer

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Legendary spinner Muttiah Muralitharan has praised Ravichandran Ashwin, calling him a smart cricketer and expects him to utilize his talent in the upcoming competitions. The 45-year old also believes that the nascent Sri Lankan side is slacking and needs to learn to solve their own problems.

India's premier off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is known for his subtle changes in bowling that have befuddled numerous world-class batsmen and have helped him and India dominate the world Test rankings. Muttiah Muralitharan, the highest wicket taking bowler in Tests and ODIs believes that Ashwin is a smart cricketer and expects him to continue his dazzling performance in the upcoming matches.

“Ashwin has improved a lot in the recent past. He played really well in the recent matches. He has the experience and talent to showcase his skills in the upcoming ones. In fact, according to me, he is a smart cricketer. Looking forward to seeing his performance," Muralitharan told Indian Express.

The Sri Lankan team struck a new low after suffering a historic loss at the hands of 11th ranked Zimbabwe at home in a 5-match ODI series, which the gritty Zimbabweans won 3-2. Muralitharan believes the team needs to move on after the retirement of the Sri Lankan greats in Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene and himself.

“I am happy that the present Sri Lankan team is absolutely new. But I can notice the team is slacking a bit in overall performance these days. They should solve all their problems themselves and build on the reputation of the team. The retirement of Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene and myself both from Test and ODI cricket has weakened the team but they need to move on,” he said.

The second season of Tamil Nadu Premier League is all set to kick off on July 22nd and Muralitharan has his part to play as the mentor of TNPL franchise VB Thiruvallur Veerans. The 45-year old expressed happiness on being associated with the team and stated that he would try his best to guide the youngsters in the team.

“I am happy to be a part of this wonderful team. All the players have got a great opportunity to showcase their skills in the upcoming league matches. Though I am not a full-fledged coach, I will surely guide them in the best possible manner," he said.

Meanwhile, BCCI announced the return of Chennai Super Kings back to the Indian Premier League after a two-year suspension and Muralitharan, who has earlier played with the team and later took on the role of a mentor cannot wait to don CSK colours once again.

 “I have been associated with the team for quite a long time. But in the near future, if I again get an opportunity to work with CSK, I will enthusiastically do it.”

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