New Delhi: The cricketing world is buzzing with anticipation for the high-octane Asia Cup 2025 Super Four showdown between India and Pakistan in Dubai this Sunday. Adding fuel to the fiery debate, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has posed a crucial question that’s on many fans’ minds: should young left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh make a comeback to the playing XI?
During a candid discussion on Sony Sports, Pathan highlighted the undeniable value of having a left-arm fast bowler complementing Jasprit Bumrah. He stressed that in pressure situations, particularly when the ball gets wet, Arshdeep’s unique skillset could be absolutely vital for the team.
“I stand by what I said before the Asia Cup began. I genuinely want to see Arshdeep play alongside Jasprit Bumrah, because there could very well be scenarios where India desperately needs a second specialist fast bowler,” Pathan elaborated. He challenged the current team composition by asking, “When the ball is wet and the pressure is mounting, can Hardik Pandya consistently deliver six yorkers, or is Shivam Dube truly capable of that?”
Pathan, himself a former left-arm seamer, acknowledged that the team management might have a different perspective. However, he firmly believes that Arshdeep’s inclusion warrants serious consideration. “Undoubtedly, this is a tough call. It’s hard to tamper with a winning combination, and you wouldn’t want to sacrifice a batter. While I might approach this differently, the team appears to be leaning in another direction,” he remarked.
Arshdeep was notably absent from India’s dominant seven-wicket victory over Pakistan earlier in the group stage. He did get a chance in the subsequent group fixture against Oman, where he picked up 1 for 37 in his four overs. Given that the pitches in Dubai are known to offer grip and assist spinners, captain Suryakumar Yadav is widely expected to stick with his trio of slow-bowling maestros: Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Varun Chakravarthy.
However, as the stakes dramatically escalate in the Super Four stage, Pathan’s insights resonate deeply. The ongoing discussion about India’s optimal pace attack could very well be the deciding factor, influencing whether the Men in Blue can solidify their dominance over Pakistan or find themselves vulnerable if game conditions unexpectedly shift.