Ravichandran Ashwin reflects on Sanjay Manjrekar’s critique and its impact
Ashwin’s initial reaction to criticism
Ravichandran Ashwin, a former India off-spinner, has spoken about the impact of criticism from commentator Sanjay Manjrekar early in his career. Ashwin revealed that an article written by Manjrekar after his first tour of Australia left him feeling both angry and deeply hurt. This initial critique led to a period of silence between the two for several years.
Ashwin recounted that he read Manjrekar’s extensive article while returning from the tour. The content of the article, which questioned his abilities, particularly his fitness, affected him significantly. He noted that while anger was a part of his reaction, the feeling of being let down was more profound.
The first Test tour of Australia for Ashwin occurred during the 2011-12 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. During this series, he secured nine wickets across three matches, maintaining an average of 62.77 and an economy rate of 3.36 over five innings. Despite being India’s third-highest wicket-taker in the series, his performance did not deter critics who doubted his effectiveness in overseas conditions.
The turning point and reconciliation
Following the initial criticism, Ashwin chose to internalise the comments and use them as motivation. He dedicated himself to improving his fitness and overall performance, working extensively over the subsequent four years. He acknowledged that he was not inherently a gifted athlete and therefore had to put in considerable effort.
The relationship between Ashwin and Manjrekar began to change in 2015. Manjrekar penned another article, this time acknowledging Ashwin’s improved bowling performances. This positive assessment marked a significant shift, prompting Ashwin to reach out to the commentator.
Ashwin contacted Manjrekar to express how the earlier critical article had, in fact, changed his life. He explained that he consistently seeks to learn from criticism, and Manjrekar’s initial remarks had served as a powerful catalyst for his development. This communication led to a reconciliation between the two.
Manjrekar’s history of controversial remarks
Manjrekar has been known for his outspoken opinions and remarks throughout his commentary career, which have often led to disagreements with players and fans. One notable instance involved his comments about veteran Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, whom he referred to as a ‘bits-and-pieces cricketer’ during the 2019 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
The former India batter also made remarks concerning Virat Kohli, particularly during a period when Kohli’s form was under scrutiny. Manjrekar later suggested that Kohli was ‘very sensitive to criticism’ and would become distant after hearing negative comments. Ashwin noted that such public commentary profoundly influenced how players perceived experts.
Ashwin concluded his international career as India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Tests, with 537 wickets, including 37 five-wicket hauls and 8 ten-wicket hauls, achieved at an average of 24.00 and an economy rate of 2.83 across 106 matches. Overall, he finished his international career with 765 wickets across all formats, including 156 ODI wickets and 72 T20 International wickets, making him the second-highest international wicket-taker in Indian cricket history.
After retiring from international cricket, Ashwin continued his involvement in the sport through other formats, including an appearance in Major League Cricket. He was also signed for the Big Bash League in a previous season but missed the tournament due to an injury.
Source: newsable.asianetnews.com
