R Ashwin slams 20-ball 45 as an opener in a TNPL 2024 game that saw 5 ducks - WATCH

R Ashwin showcased his attacking prowess with a powerful knock for the Dindigul Dragons against the Chepauk Super Gillies in the ongoing 2024 Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) match in Coimbatore on Sunday, July 14. Opening the batting, Ashwin delivered a stunning performance, scoring 45 runs off just 20 balls in a rain-affected 7-over game. Ashwin's knock was made up of three boundaries and four sixes. 

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R Ashwin plays captain's knock 

The Dindigul Dragons faced early setbacks as they were reduced to 3 for 3 within the second over of the contest. Abhishek Tanwar struck twice in the opening over, while Rahil Shah claimed the crucial wicket of Baba Indrajith in the second. The situation called for a counter-attacking approach, and Ashwin stepped up to meet the challenge. This marks a transformation in Ashwin's T20 cricket style, as he frequently moves up the batting order even in the IPL.

Ashwin took the attack to the opposition despite losing partners at the other end. Vimal Khumar also provided some resistance with two boundaries but Ashwin continued his onslaught. Ashwin's masterclass with the bat propelled the Dragons to a competitive total of 64 for 6 in their allotted seven overs. 

Ashwin’s 45-run blitz was instrumental in giving the Dragons a fighting chance, as none of his teammates managed to score more than 15 runs. Vimal Khumar was the only other batsman to reach double digits apart from Ashwin. Four of his teammates were dismissed for a duck. 

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Despite Ashwin's impactful knock, Chepauk Super Gillies managed to snatch a victory against the Dindigul Dragons as they chased down the target in just 4.5 overs. Chepauk Super Gillies won the match by 9 wickets with 13 balls remaining. 

Wicket-keeper Narayan Jagadeesan and captain Baba Aparajith finished the job for Chepauk as they registered an unbeaten partnership of 65 runs. Abhishek Tanwar was named the player of the match for picking up 2 wickets in as many overs.