Australia recall ‘Ashwin duplicate’ Mahesh Pithiya ahead of World Cup, Baroda spinner declines offer

Baroda off-spinner Mahesh Pithiya had the opportunity to work closely with the Australian team during the previous edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. His bowling action bears a striking resemblance to that of the legendary Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, which prompted the Australian team to bring him on board in hopes of learning how to tackle Ashwin’s skills. Unfortunately, Australia was unable to find success in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, as Ashwin emerged as the leading wicket-taker.

Looking ahead to the upcoming ODI World Cup, scheduled to commence on October 5, the Australian team management approached Pithiya to rejoin the squad before their crucial match against the hosts on October 8. However, after consulting with Baroda bowling coach S Aravind, the 21-year-old declined the offer, expressing his desire to focus more on the domestic season rather than taking on additional commitments.

“It was certainly an exciting offer, but then, I am also part of the Baroda set-up for the domestic season that begins next month. So, I thought about it, spoke to our coach and informed them that it won’t be possible for me to join the camp this time around,” Pithiya told Sportstar.

Pithiya clarified that he was not initially included in the plans. However, when the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced Ravichandran Ashwin’s selection for the ODI World Cup, Pithiya was offered the opportunity to join the squad in Chennai by October 4th.

“As soon as the BCCI announced Ashwin as the replacement for Axar, I got the call. It is always exciting to work with international teams, but my priority is domestic cricket. I have come so far because of playing for Baroda and ahead of a long season, I thought I should focus on my game and not join the Australian team,” the youngster added.

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