Most exciting IPL ever, feels Ashwin

“This is the most exciting IPL. I think that there is a value addition after two new teams (Kochi Tuskers and Pune Warriors) have come in. With the 10-team format you can play on the final day and still be within a chance of making the play-offs,” said Ashwin ahead of the defending champions’ clash with Mumbai Indians on Friday.

“But I think that with the kind of side and ability, we would try and achieve what we have been doing over the last three years,” said the 24-year-old bowler about his side’s chances in the tournament.

Ashwin, who has played nine ODIs and three T20 Internationals since his India debut in Harare in June 2010, said it was his dream to play for the country in Test cricket too but was not sure when that would bear fruit.

“Yes. Definitely it is my dream to play Test cricket but I don’t know when it will happen. Playing Tests, ODI and World Cup for any kid in India is a dream. I can only deliver what I can,” he said.

The young bowler also emphasised the importance of going through the grind of first class cricket.

“First class cricket is most important to any cricketers wishing to climb the ladder of success. I think you have to go through the grind. It is extremely important to learn to handle oneself and I learnt them, thanks to first class cricket. I think that playing first class cricket in India is not an easy thing to do and also playing for a team like Tamil Nadu. It’s the hardest yardstick to go through,” he said.

He was thankful to his captains Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Gautam Gambhir, under whom he has played for India, for the confidence they have showed in his bowling.