India vs New Zealand 1st Test: Ravichandran Ashwin’s BIG statement, “I am shutting the outside noise better than ever"

India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin on Sunday said that he has lived through expectations for a while now and he has gotten better at shutting out outside noise.

At stumps on Day 3, India's score read 14/1 with the hosts leading New Zealand by 63 runs. For India, Cheteshwar Pujara (9*) and Mayank Agarwal (4*) are currently unbeaten at the crease.

"Look, I thought we stuck together really well as a bowling unit. 130-140 overs on that sort of pitch and going less than 2.5 runs per over, it was always going to be hard work and we were prepared for that. Everyone played their role perfectly. I felt the new ball was an easier time to bat in terms of scoring runs but we got wickets with second new ball," Ashwin told host broadcaster Star Sports before the start of play on Day 4.

"I thought it was a wonderful effort. Sometimes it is easier said than done. I cannot be saying cliched things. I have lived through expectations for a while now, for me cricket is purpose of my life. I am at that stage where I am shutting the outside noise better than I have ever done," he added.

Special: @ashwinravi99 takes centre stage to interview Mr. Fifer @akshar2026 & Super sub @KonaBharat. 

You don't want to miss this rendezvous with the #TeamIndia trio after Day 3 of the Kanpur Test. - By @28anand

Full interview  #INDvNZ @Paytm https://t.co/KAycXfmiJG pic.twitter.com/jZcAmU41Nf

— BCCI (@BCCI) November 27, 2021

Earlier, Axar Patel scalped five wickets as New Zealand was bundled out for 296, handing India a lead of 49 runs. Tom Latham top-scored for the visitors after playing a knock of 95.

"It was one of the most grinding pitches for both batters and bowlers. I would love to see couple of my batters score big on this wicket," said Ashwin.