The cricketing world is buzzing ahead of the highly anticipated Asia Cup 2025 Super Four clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan in Dubai this Sunday. Adding to the pre-match excitement, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has thrown a curveball, openly questioning whether pace sensation Arshdeep Singh should make a comeback into the playing XI.
Arshdeep Singh (PTI Photo)
During a lively discussion on Sony Sports, Pathan strongly advocated for a left-arm quick to complement Jasprit Bumrah, emphasizing that such a bowler could be absolutely vital, especially if conditions become tricky or the team faces intense pressure.
“I’ll stand by what I said even before the Asia Cup began. I genuinely want to see Arshdeep playing alongside Bumrah because there might be situations where a second specialist fast bowler is critically needed,” Pathan asserted. He then probed deeper, “When the ball gets wet and the team is under immense pressure, is Hardik Pandya’s primary strength consistently delivering six yorkers? Or can Shivam Dube reliably do that?”
The veteran seamer acknowledged that the team management might have a different perspective but stressed that Arshdeep’s case warrants serious consideration. “Undoubtedly, there’s a significant question here. That’s why we need to contemplate Arshdeep’s role. However, it’s incredibly challenging to alter a winning team. You also wouldn’t want to compromise by playing one less batter. It’s a tough call. Personally, I would have opted for a different approach, but it seems the team strategists are thinking along different lines,” he elaborated.
Arshdeep had been benched for India’s impressive seven-wicket victory against Pakistan in the group stage. He finally got his opportunity in the subsequent group fixture against Oman, where he managed to pick up 1 wicket for 37 runs in his four overs. Given that the Dubai pitches are known to offer good grip, favoring spinners, Captain Suryakumar Yadav is widely anticipated to stick with his trio of slow-bowling maestros: Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Varun Chakravarthy.
However, as the Super Four stage intensifies, Irfan Pathan’s remarks carry considerable weight. The debate over India’s optimal pace attack balance could very well be the deciding factor, determining whether the Men in Blue can confidently secure another victory over Pakistan or if they risk vulnerability should match conditions take an unexpected turn.
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