Warm-up games crucial to generate some momentum : Ashwin

Chennai: The glass is always half full for R. Ashwin. The eternal optimist that he is, ace off-spinner counted the positives from India’s wretched Asia Cup campaign. According to Ashwin, the experience of playing on tricky Bangladesh pitches was possibly the “best preparation” for India ahead of the World T20 championship, set to be held in the same country.

“The dew factor remains the focal point while playing in Bangladesh,” said Ashwin on the sidelines of an event . The Indians led by skipper M.S. Dhoni are set to warm up for the T20 extravaganza with two matches against Sri Lanka and England before their high-voltage opener against archrivals Pakistan on March 21.  
Ashwin said it was imperative for the side to make optimum use of the practice matches. “It’s vital to get ourselves into the groove before the tournament begins. Warm-up games are important to generate some momentum for the main stage,” Ashwin said.

A quick glance at the previous editions of the World T20 suggests that there has been negligible home advantage, as hosts have never won the trophy. “It all boils down to making a good beginning to get going.I don’t think playing at home is a big factor in this format of the game. Anybody can win,” Ashwin said.