sport news Why India made a huge mistake by leaving Ravichandran Ashwin out of WTC final ... trends now

Why India made a huge mistake by leaving the world's best Test bowler Ravichandran Ashwin out of WTC final against Australia India boldly opted for Ravichandran Ashwin as their 12th man Has been a prolific wicket-taker against Australia previously Aussies dominated day one of World Test Championship final

By Andrew Prentice For Daily Mail Australia

Published: 03:57 BST, 8 June 2023 | Updated: 03:57 BST, 8 June 2023

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India's puzzling decision to leave veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin out of their XI for the World Test Championship final backfired in spectacular fashion, with Australia assuming control after day one at The Oval in London.

Travis Head plundered a century off just 106 balls, finishing unbeaten on 146 at stumps, with the Aussies in command at 3/327.

Steve Smith is also 95 not out, with Pat Cummins' men poised to make an imposing first innings score after losing the toss and being sent into bat on a green deck tipped to be a fast bowler's paradise - but not much good for spinners.

India's decision to leave veteran spinner Ravi Ashwin out of their XI for the World Test Championship final backfired in