Ravichandran Ashwin advocates for Arshdeep Singh to be prioritized as a key bowler for the Indian cricket team, highlighting his consistent performance.
Arshdeep Singh celebrated after taking the wicket of Australia's Mitch Marsh during a one-day international in Adelaide, Australia.
Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin expressed surprise at Arshdeep being left out of the T20 playing eleven, stating that based on his record, the left-arm pacer should be the second-choice fast bowler after Jasprit Bumrah. Ashwin emphasized that ignoring such a consistent performer cannot be justified.
Ashwin's comments followed India's four-wicket defeat against Australia in the second T20I in Melbourne. India were all out for just 125, and Australia chased the target in under 14 overs to take a 1-0 lead in the series. The first T20 match of the five-match series in Canberra was washed out.
"Arshdeep Singh's name should be the second name on your fast bowlers' list if Bumrah is playing. If Bumrah is not playing, Arshdeep becomes your first bowler on that team list. I just cannot understand how Arshdeep Singh keeps missing out from the eleven in this side. I don't really get it."
Ashwin strongly believes Arshdeep Singh deserves a key role in India’s T20 bowling lineup, second only to Bumrah, based on his consistent performances and current form.
Author’s note: Ashwin’s call underscores the importance of rewarding consistent talent like Arshdeep Singh in India's fast bowling attack.