India have named an unchanged playing XI for their crucial Asia Cup 2025 clash against Pakistan. The omission of top wicket-taker Arshdeep Singh has sparked debate ahead of the match at Dubai.
Ravichandran Ashwin has strongly criticized the exclusion of Arshdeep Singh from India's team. Ashwin questioned the logic of prioritizing extra batting options over a specialist T20I bowler like Arshdeep, who boasts 99 T20I wickets. He emphasized the mental impact on bowlers consistently sidelined despite strong IPL and international performances, urging them to recognize their worth.
Team India, fresh off a dominant win against UAE in their Asia Cup 2025 opener, is keenly observing Afghanistan, a formidable T20 opponent. Key players like Sanju Samson and Hardik Pandya were seen analyzing Afghanistan's net practice, focusing on their explosive batting and diverse bowling attack.
Arshdeep Singh, despite being India’s leading T20I wicket-taker and a World Cup hero, finds himself sidelined under coach Gautam Gambhir’s regime. From missing his Test debut at The Oval to warming benches in the Asia Cup, Arshdeep Singh is probably fighting the most gruesome battle of his career.
India's Asia Cup 2025 began with a dominant win over UAE, but Suryakumar Yadav's sportsmanship stole the show. He withdrew a run-out appeal, earning praise from Ajinkya Rahane, who highlighted the gesture's significance. Rahane also commented on team balance, noting Arshdeep Singh's absence and suggesting his inclusion alongside Bumrah for quality pace bowling against stronger opponents later in the tournament.
Shivam Dube dismissed comparisons with Hardik Pandya, emphasizing his respect and learning from the star all-rounder. In the Asia Cup opener, India chose Dube over Arshdeep Singh, a strategic move that bolstered the batting lineup.
Sanju Samson has secured his place in India's playing XI for their Asia Cup clash in Dubai, despite speculation surrounding Shubman Gill's return and Tilak Varma's presence. India has strategically bolstered their batting lineup by including Shivam Dube and surprisingly excluding Arshdeep Singh. India won the toss and chose to bowl first.
Arshdeep Singh is on the cusp of becoming the first Indian bowler to claim 100 T20I wickets at the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 in Dubai. India's campaign starts on September 10 against the UAE, followed by a high-stakes match against Pakistan on September 14. The squad includes Surya Kumar Yadav as captain and Shubman Gill as vice-captain.
Arshdeep Singh, after an unfortunate injury during the England Test series, showcased his readiness in the Duleep Trophy quarterfinal. Despite not playing, he utilised his time in England to hone his skills, focusing on strength and conditioning.
Arshdeep Singh revealed how Mohammed Siraj supported him during a tough phase on the England tour. His advice helped Arshdeep enjoy difficult moments and stay mentally strong ahead of the Asia Cup.
Arshdeep Singh showcased his all-round abilities in the Duleep Trophy quarter-final, smashing two sixes in a cameo and later impressing with the ball. Aquib Nabi's hat-trick helped North Zone dominate East Zone, securing a substantial first-innings lead. Arshdeep's performance, after recovering from a thumb injury, will boost India's confidence ahead of the Asia Cup 2025.
North Zone's pacers dominated the Duleep Trophy quarterfinal against East Zone. Auqib Nabi's hat-trick and five-wicket haul helped dismiss East Zone for 230, while Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana delivered impactful spells. North Zone extended their score to 405, establishing a 183-run lead. Arshdeep, returning from injury, showcased excellent form.
Arshdeep Singh's Test debut in England was delayed due to injury and team selection, testing his patience. Punjab's bowling coach, Gagandeep Singh, believes Arshdeep should have been given a chance, given his swing bowling ability.