“The problem is for a spinner to come into play, it must be the fourth innings. The fourth innings is a very crucial facet and for us to be able to put that amount of runs so the spinner can come into play, it’s completely a mindset thing,” Ashwin said.

Earlier this year, during Australia's tour of India for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Ashwin emerged as the player of the series, having claimed an impressive 25 wickets in four matches. Although the spinner appreciated the support he received from former players following his exclusion in the World Test Championship Final, he expressed his disappointment at missing out on an opportunity to contribute towards India's pursuit of an ICC title.

"I am 36 years old and honestly, what triggers you what gives you happiness, it changes. Yeah, every time, I get a text message from some of the former senior cricketers, I always get excited and immediately respond. That’s because of how I have seen them as a youngster.

I felt happy they thought I was good enough to play. But the fact of the matter is, I couldn’t get an opportunity or the world title. I knew I was going to be left out 48 hours before. So for me, my entire goal was to make sure I can contribute to the guys and help us win a title because I played a part in it," Ashwin said.

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