Arshdeep Singh Should Be Second Choice After Bumrah, Says Ashwin
Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has urged the Indian team to give priority to Arshdeep Singh as a key bowler, highlighting his consistent performances. Ashwin expressed surprise at the decision to exclude Arshdeep from the T20 playing eleven, emphasizing that the left-arm pacer should be the second-fastest bowler after Jasprit Bumrah.
"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’s comments came following India's four-wicket defeat against Australia in the second T20I match in Melbourne. India managed only 125 runs before Australia successfully chased the target in under 14 overs, taking a 1-0 lead in the series. The first T20 match in Canberra was washed out.
Series Context
- India lost the second T20I by four wickets.
- India was bowled out for just 125 runs.
- Australia chased the total in under 14 overs.
- The first T20 match was abandoned due to rain.
Ashwin's Perspective
Ashwin is puzzled by the continued omission of Arshdeep Singh despite his reliable performances and suggests he should be a regular part of the playing eleven when Jasprit Bumrah is available.
Author’s summary: Ravichandran Ashwin believes Arshdeep Singh deserves a regular place in India's T20 squad, ranking just behind Jasprit Bumrah due to his consistent bowling performances.