New Delhi, Jan 8 (NationPress) New Zealand’s Vellore-born leg-spinner Adithya Ashok expresses his enthusiasm for the opportunity to bowl against Indian cricket legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the imminent three-match ODI series commencing in Vadodara on Sunday.

Ashok, 23, originally from Vellore, Tamil Nadu, relocated to Auckland, New Zealand at the age of four. Having played two ODIs and a T20I, Ashok recognizes that the absence of several regulars in the 50-over series presents him with a unique chance to bowl to two of cricket's modern icons.

“This is a thrilling opportunity and a significant challenge to compete against such renowned players. The achievements they have made throughout their careers are truly remarkable,” he noted.

“For me, the chance to potentially play against them and experience their greatness is incredibly exciting,” Ashok stated during a recent virtual interaction with IANS.

He has a tattoo on his bowling arm that reads ‘En vazhi thani vazhi’ (My way is a unique way), a famous line from superstar Rajinikanth in the film ‘Padayappa’. This tattoo serves as a tribute not only to the actor but also to his late grandfather, with whom he enjoyed watching the movie.

During his last trip to India, Ashok participated in a two-week spin camp at the CSK Academy in Chennai led by coach Sriram Krishnamurthy. He aims to apply the skills he acquired during that camp when facing Kohli and Rohit.

“I approach this series with a mindset focused on opportunity and growth, aiming to contribute my unique skills while competing against phenomenal players like Rohit and Kohli,” he added.

Instead of viewing the series as a source of pressure, Ashok seeks to enhance his skills and absorb the experience of bowling in India. “I believe that if I can leave this series having learned new techniques and grown as a cricketer and person, it will enrich my journey,” he stated.

“Achieving success is important, but focusing on improvement and minimizing expectations can help me learn and grow effectively,” he said. “This series is an exciting opportunity to play in a country where cricket is deeply cherished.”

Ashok represented New Zealand in the 2020 Under-19 World Cup in South Africa and looks up to Australian leg-spin legend Shane Warne and fellow Kiwi Ish Sodhi. He also credits former national spinners Tarun Nethula and Paul Wiseman as pivotal in his career, especially in his recovery from back surgery performed by Rowan Schouten.

“They have been crucial in my development as a player, particularly during my recovery from a significant injury that was uncommon for a young spinner,” Ashok explained.

“We focused on making technical adjustments to my bowling action to alleviate stress on my back,” he added.

Ashok maintains regular contact with his mentors, even messaging Nethula after New Zealand's first training session in Vadodara. “I updated him on how things went today, keeping him in the loop as he’s a vital part of my support system,” concluded Ashok, who possesses all the attributes necessary to solidify his place in the New Zealand cricket setup.