After marking exceptional performances in the first Test match against Bangladesh, Indian Cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin shared that he wants to play cricket with a smile on his face. He believes that maintaining a positive and relaxed mindset helps him to perform better on the field. Notably, the cricketer made this statement in his recent interview with Journalist Vimal Kumar.

He also discussed his approach to handling pressure, his recent century against Bangladesh, and his philosophy of playing cricket. When asked, how does he continue to remain at the elite level and perform well on the International stage? Ashwin came up with a powerful response.

He shared that once he used to be critical about himself and put a lot of pressure on him. “I used to be happy about it. But it is not like that anymore,” Ashwin added.

“The most important thing for me is to enjoy my cricket. I want to play cricket with a smile on my face. Four or five years ago, I had promised myself that I would not respond to anyone. I had promised myself that I would play for my happiness. I have been maintaining that promise till now,” the 38-year-old cricketer further added.

Embracing Challenges

Ashwin embraced the tough challenges that have come his way. He took these challenges as a testament to his mindset and dedication to the game. 

“As a cricketer, the pride is in the performance. You want to win and play for that. I do enjoy pressure, there is no doubt about it. That is one of the reasons I love playing this sport. It gives opportunities to respond when you are pushed to a corner. For me, it’s being in the present and using the experience from the past to negotiate hard situations,” he stated.

Ashwin outlined that he is a keen learner and is striving for progress and pursuing excellence. He said he was doing it all out of happiness. “You want to excel, you feel happy at the end of the day. Every time I do well, I am in a good, happy state of mind. That is why you get on this journey. You want to excel on the global stage. People are watching you and you feel happy about it,” he outlined.

Recent Performances in Test Matches against Bangladesh

This is to be added that Ravichandran Ashwin, has made remarkable performances in Test matches against Bangladesh held on Thursday in MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. He became the first cricketer in Test history to achieve a double of 20-half centuries and 30 five-wicket hauls. He scored his sixth Test century making 102 off 112 balls including 10 fours and 2 sixes.

This century came out at a crucial time when India was struggling at 144/6. His Partnership with Ravindra Jadeja puts together a vital 195-run. This score helped team India to recover and end the day at 339/6.