R. Ashwin has urged Gautam Gambhir and the Indian team management to bring Arshdeep Singh back into the T20I squad. Speaking on his YouTube show Ash ki Baat, Ashwin questioned why India’s best left arm pacer after Jasprit Bumrah is sitting out without a clear reason.
Ashwin Questions Arshdeep’s Exclusion
Ashwin stressed that his point was not about Harshit Rana, but about clarifying why Arshdeep Singh has been benched. His comments came after India were bowled out for just 125 in the second T20I against Australia, suffering a humbling defeat.
Harshit Rana Not at Fault, But Debate Stays
Harshit Rana scored a useful 35 runs at No 7 but struggled with the ball, conceding 27 in two overs without a wicket. Ashwin still focused on Arshdeep, stating his name should always stand next to Bumrah when choosing fast bowlers for India.
“If Bumrah Out, Arshdeep First Pick”
According to Ashwin, if Bumrah plays, Arshdeep is second choice, and if Bumrah rests, Arshdeep should be the first pacer picked. He believes Arshdeep looks rusty only because he is not being given game time despite performing brilliantly in the T20 World Cup.
Team Balance and Gambhir’s Approach Questioned
Ashwin hinted that under Gautam Gambhir, India are preferring batting depth over specialist bowlers. He noted that specialists like Arshdeep Singh and Kuldeep Yadav are being pushed aside for bowling all-rounders like Harshit Rana.
Hardik Injury Adds to Selection Chaos
Since Hardik Pandya’s injury, India have leaned heavily on all-rounders, which Ashwin feels has further sidelined specialists. He warned that not playing your best bowler will naturally make him look rusty and urged management to give Arshdeep his place.
Batting Order Shuffle Raises Doubts
Ashwin also referred to unsettled roles at the top. Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma showed promise as openers, but Shubman Gill returned to the role, leaving others confused. Tilak Varma and Samson are unsure of their positions, adding to team instability.
Three Spinners in Australia Questioned
He pointed out that picking three spinners in Australia surprised many. With Arshdeep Singh being India’s best T20I wicket taker yet sitting out, Ashwin feels the team looks confused instead of confident.
World Cup Nearing, No Clear Plan
With only months left before the World Cup, he believes the once balanced side looks unsettled. As the third T20I approaches on 2nd November, Ashwin hopes India trust their specialist bowlers instead of constant changes that may backfire.
