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Champions League: R Ashwin was our big hero, says Dhoni

Updated on: 28 September,2010 07:20 AM IST |
A Correspondent |

He might have not had a big say in the first edition of the Indian Premier League.

He might have not had a big say in the first edition of the Indian Premier League. In the second edition, he made his presence felt with some decent performances. But by the time the third edition of the IPL was played, Ravichandran Ashwin had become an able and trusted warrior for Mahendra Singh Dhoni.

In fact, Chennai Super Kings skipper Dhoni insisted that it was Ashwin's performance in the final of the Champions League T20 tournament against Warriors that saw them winning the coveted trophy and a whopping $2.5 million in prize money.

"He claimed the wicket of the dangerous-looking Davy Jacobs and that I thought was crucial," he added.

Ashwin had a great Champions League T20 tournament in South Africa. While in the final he had splendid figures of 4-0-16-2, he claimed 13 wickets in six outings to finish as the highest wicket-taker. And while he took wickets for Dhoni at crucial stages, Ashwin ensured he was absolutely stingy when it came to giving away runs.
"He is a very intelligent bowler," Dhoni said. "You don't have to guide him much. All you have to do is toss the ball at him and he will do a good job. But the most amazing thing about Ashwin, according to me is, that he's always ready for a challenge," Dhoni said.u00a0

The towering off-spinner, who is studying to be an engineer, may come across as a gentle giant, but the moment the ball is thrown to him, his aggressive side comes to the fore.

"His aggression is his biggest strength," Dhoni said. "Also, he comes in handy with the bat. That's very crucial. If a person can offer more than he has, then it is always beneficial to the team."

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