Former India off-spinner R Ashwin has called for Arshdeep Singh’s inclusion in India’s playing XI for the Asia Cup 2025 final against Pakistan in Dubai on Sunday, following the left-arm pacer’s impressive performance in the Super Over against Sri Lanka. Arshdeep, who recently became the fastest pace bowler to reach 100 wickets in 64 matches, has struggled to secure a regular spot in the team due to India’s spin-heavy approach.Arshdeep Singh demonstrated his value to the team in his second appearance of the tournament, where he bowled a decisive Super Over against Sri Lanka. The 26-year-old Punjab seamer conceded only two runs and claimed two wickets, enabling India to secure victory with one delivery remaining.
Despite his achievements, Arshdeep has faced challenges in maintaining a consistent presence in the playing XI, as India has primarily relied on Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya as their main pace bowling options while emphasizing spin bowling.“I’ll say this even with my glasses on! Even if you wake me up from deep sleep, my answer won’t change: Arshdeep must play. How many runs will the number 8 batsman make? Not too many, and you don’t need that many. And for the World Cup in six months, work on Arshdeep’s batting, work on Varun Chakravarthy’s batting, Bumrah can already hit a bit, decent bat swing. The batting coach needs to give more time to these guys,” Ashwin stated on his YouTube channel ‘Ash ki Baat’.The situation has become more pertinent with uncertainty surrounding Hardik Pandya’s availability for the final due to a thigh injury sustained during the previous match. This development could potentially create an opening for Arshdeep in the team composition.“The way Arshdeep bowled, he proved again why we keep saying on this channel that Arshdeep is needed. Once more, he proved it. So, in many ways, if Hardik doesn’t play, India will have to play Arshdeep. So, for India, Hardik is necessary, but this is one of those situations where it could also be good, because Arshdeep will get played and can again show why he’s that important bowler for India,” Ashwin explained.
Poll
Should Arshdeep Singh be included in India’s playing XI for the Asia Cup final against Pakistan?
Ashwin also emphasized the importance of developing the batting abilities of India’s tail-end batters in preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup. This strategic approach would address both immediate team composition needs and long-term development goals for the squad.The former spinner’s advocacy for Arshdeep’s inclusion comes at a crucial time as India prepares for the high-stakes final against Pakistan, with team selection decisions potentially impacted by Hardik’s injury status and the need for effective bowling options in the death overs.Arshdeep’s recent milestone of becoming the first Indian and fastest pace bowler to reach 100 wickets in 64 matches further strengthens his case for selection, highlighting his effectiveness and consistency in limited-overs cricket.The team management’s decision regarding Arshdeep’s inclusion could prove pivotal in the final, considering his demonstrated ability to perform under pressure and his recent success in crucial moments of matches.
