Arshdeep Singh’s continued omission from the Indian T20I side has sparked a fiery public critique from veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin. The former Test star didn’t mince words, slamming the team management’s decision-making and demanding the left-arm pacer be given his rightful place in the XI.
Why Ashwin is So Angry About Arshdeep’s Exclusion
Ashwin’s frustration stems from what he sees as a baffling lack of logic in the selection process. In a recent commentary and on his social media, he questioned why Arshdeep, India’s leading wicket-taker in T20 Internationals, is being benched while the team claims to be in an “experimental” phase .
His core argument is simple: if the goal is to test new combinations and give opportunities, then why rest a proven performer like Arshdeep instead of an established star like Jasprit Bumrah? “If you are looking to experiment, you rest your main bowler, not the one who has been consistently delivering,” Ashwin implied .
Arshdeep Singh’s Stellar T20I Record
The numbers back Ashwin’s claim. Arshdeep isn’t just any bowler; he’s a record-holder for his country in the shortest format.
| Statistic | Figure |
|---|---|
| T20I Wickets (for India) | 94+ (Leading Wicket-Taker) |
| Best Bowling Figures | 4/23 |
| Economy Rate | ~8.50 |
| Death Overs Specialist | Yes |
This consistent performance, especially in high-pressure death overs, makes his exclusion even more puzzling to fans and experts alike .
The Bigger Picture: A Pattern Under New Management?
Ashwin’s comments also hint at a larger concern. Some reports suggest that Arshdeep’s benching has become a recurring theme since the new coaching regime, led by Gautam Gambhir, took over . This has led to speculation about a potential shift in the team’s bowling philosophy or even personal preferences that are overriding pure performance metrics.
“I cannot understand how Arshdeep Singh keeps missing out from the XI,” Ashwin stated bluntly, a quote that has now become a rallying cry for many fans on social media .
What This Means for Team India’s Future
The debate over Arshdeep’s role is more than just about one player. It touches on crucial questions about team balance, the definition of “experimentation,” and how India plans to build its bowling attack for major ICC events. With a potent combination of Bumrah, Siraj, and Arshdeep, India has a formidable pace trio. Leaving one-third of that unit out weakens the entire setup.
Ashwin’s public intervention is a rare but powerful move. It puts pressure on the selectors and coaching staff to justify their decisions transparently. As one of the most respected voices in Indian cricket, his opinion carries significant weight .