Adithya Ashok Eyes Indian Test with Chennai Experience

New Zealand leg spinner Adithya Ashok is set to put his understanding of Indian conditions to the test as the Black Caps begin their three-match ODI series against India in Baroda on January 11. The 23-year-old spent a couple of weeks at the CSK Academy in Chennai last year, an experience that helped him build a foundational understanding of subcontinental pitches and playing conditions. As he prepares to bowl against some of the world’s best batters, that exposure could prove invaluable.

From Tamil Nadu to New Zealand: A Journey Shaped by Roots

Ashok, the latest Indian-origin cricketer to represent New Zealand, moved from Vellore in Tamil Nadu to New Zealand with his family at the age of four. Despite growing up overseas, his connection to India has remained strong. He was particularly close to his grandfather, whose influence continues to guide him. As a tribute, Ashok has a Tamil tattoo on his bowling arm that reads “En vazhi thani vazhi,” meaning “my way is a unique way.” The line, made famous by a Rajinikanth film, holds deep emotional value as it was a movie he watched with his ailing grandfather.

A Valuable Learning Experience at the CSK Academy

While Ashok has visited India frequently, last year’s stint at the CSK Academy in Chennai was a defining chapter in his development. Training in Indian conditions exposed him to the nuances of red soil and black soil pitches, which behave very differently from the pace-friendly surfaces he is accustomed to in New Zealand. The experience expanded his tactical awareness and understanding of how to set up batters in spin-friendly environments.

Reflecting on the opportunity, Ashok expressed gratitude to New Zealand Cricket for facilitating the training and highlighted the role of CSK Academy’s leadership, including Sriram Krishnamurthy. He described the learning process as an important step in “building a library” as a cricketer—accumulating knowledge and experiences that can be recalled when facing similar situations in the future.

Confidence Built on Understanding, Not Assumptions

Ashok believes that his Chennai experience does not guarantee success in Indian conditions but provides a valuable reference point. Rather than ticking a box, the stint has given him an understanding of how pitches might behave and how the ball could react off different surfaces. This awareness allows him to draw on past conversations, observations, and experiences, giving him a stronger base as he prepares to face batters like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.

Inspired by Legends and Guided by Mentors

When it comes to role models, Ashok places Shane Warne at the very top. However, closer to home, he has benefited immensely from the guidance of Indian-origin leg spinners Ish Sodhi and Tarun Nethula. Sodhi, who will lead New Zealand’s spin attack in the T20 World Cup, has been a big-brother figure for Ashok—someone he admired while growing up and continues to learn from. Tarun Nethula, his current mentor, has also played a significant role in shaping his career.

Beyond fellow leg spinners, former New Zealand cricketer Paul Wiseman has been a strong pillar of support, especially during a challenging period when Ashok had to undergo surgery for a back injury—a rare setback for a spinner.

A Series That Promises Growth and Experience

As Ashok prepares to play an ODI series in the country of his birth, the opportunity represents more than just competitive cricket. It is a chance to grow richer in experience, apply lessons learned in Chennai, and further develop as a bowler on the international stage. With strong roots, valuable mentorship, and a growing understanding of Indian conditions, Adithya Ashok steps into the series ready to carve his own unique path.

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Sorit Chaudhary

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