New Delhi: Former Indian captain and current cricket pundit Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed sharp criticism of the Indian team management, led by head coach Gautam Gambhir, over pacer Arshdeep Singh being left out of the playing XI in India’s first two ODIs against New Zealand.
Ashwin took to social media and his YouTube channel to voice his frustration, arguing that sidelining deserving players can hurt their confidence and match readiness. “The contest is between the bowlers. For South Africa, you need a hit-the-deck bowler. Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana both need match experience, so I can understand the thinking. But no one is thinking about Arshdeep Singh, who will stand in his shoes and think?” Ashwin said.
The former off-spinner highlighted that prolonged periods on the bench risk leaving a bowler ‘rusty’, pointing out that Arshdeep has consistently performed whenever given an opportunity. “What must he be thinking right now? He has done so much, yet he is still fighting for his spot. Whenever he plays next, he will be rusty. No matter what you say, this is a game of confidence. Why does this happen to the bowlers at all times? It never happens with the batters,” Ashwin added.
The management defended its decision by stating that Rana and Krishna required match practice, while some insiders suggested that Arshdeep was being rested ahead of the T20 World Cup starting February 7. However, Ashwin argued that Arshdeep deserves to be an automatic inclusion and that leaving him out in the first two ODIs undermines his confidence and continuity.
“I have been in this position, so I know how it is. This is why I am fighting for Arshdeep Singh. Whenever you have given him the ball, he has performed for you. Allow him to walk into the playing XI with his head held high. He deserves this, boss,” Ashwin said.
While reports indicate that Arshdeep may feature in the third ODI of the series, Ashwin questioned the logic of such a decision, emphasizing that skipping earlier matches diminishes a player’s momentum and match sharpness.
The debate comes at a critical time as India gears up for the T20 World Cup, with Ashwin’s comments adding fuel to ongoing discussions about team selection and the management’s approach toward the pace bowling unit.
