Why Is Arshdeep Ignored? Ashwin Targets Gambhir

India’s ODI team selection against New Zealand has drawn attention after Arshdeep Singh was left out again. Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has openly questioned the decision, pointing at concerns over player management and confidence.

The three-match ODI series stands level at 1-1, with the final game scheduled on January 18 in Indore. Despite being part of the squad, Arshdeep Singh has not featured in any match so far, raising questions among players and observers.

Ashwin questions Arshdeep omission

Ravichandran Ashwin said Arshdeep Singh deserved consistent backing. He noted that Arshdeep had played all three ODIs against South Africa recently and delivered strong performances. Leaving him out now sends a confusing message to a bowler who has already proven himself.

Ashwin spoke on his YouTube channel Ash ki Baat and said future planning should not come at the cost of present performers. He stressed that someone must think from Arshdeep Singh’s perspective, not only from a selection chart.

Team management thinking under scrutiny

Ashwin explained that the management wants to test bowlers like Harshit Rana and Prasidh Krishna for future conditions. He said he understands the thinking but questioned why Arshdeep Singh continues to be ignored despite results.

He said the issue is not about one or two matches. It is about what goes on in a bowler’s mind when performances do not guarantee selection. Ashwin warned that repeated omission can make a bowler rusty and uncertain.

Arshdeep record supports Ashwin view

Ashwin said bowlers face this issue more than batters and added that he has personally experienced it. This is why he continues to speak up for Arshdeep Singh, whom he described as a consistent performer.

Arshdeep Singh’s numbers support the argument. He has taken 22 wickets in 14 ODIs at an average of 24.90 and an economy of 5.29. In List-A cricket, he has 75 wickets from 44 matches.

Ashwin also questioned the value of playing Arshdeep only in the third ODI. He said delayed chances affect confidence. As India prepare for the final match, selection calls involving Gautam Gambhir and the team management remain under focus.