Irfan Pathan Backs Arshdeep for Asia Cup 2025 Final XI
Arshdeep Singh, who recently became the fastest Indian to claim 100 T20I wickets, is surprisingly absent from India’s playing XI in the ongoing Asia Cup 2025. Despite his impressive track record, the team management has chosen to field just one frontline seamer — Jasprit Bumrah — supported by three spinners, while Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube have taken over the fifth bowling option.
Former India pacer Irfan Pathan believes that decision needs to change for the high-stakes final against Pakistan on Sunday. According to him, Arshdeep’s temperament under pressure and his ability to deliver pinpoint yorkers in the death overs make him a must-have in the side.
“First things first, he’s like an ice. When the pressure is on, he asks for the ball and bowls. In the end overs, he is ready to bowl his yorkers. He bowls yorkers in tandem with Jasprit Bumrah [when both play together]. He is a bowler of that quality. For me, it’s nothing new. I have been saying from the first day that he should be in the playing XI,” Irfan said, speaking on Sony Sports.
Team Balance vs Bowling Firepower
Pathan explained that the selectors are prioritizing batting depth over bowling strength, which is why Arshdeep has been left out. However, he feels that approach could hurt India in a close match.
“There are situations when you need yorkers from both ends. Today, the match went on till the very end. But, the Indian team’s thinking is that we need a long batting line-up. So, Shivam Dube is playing as an all-rounder. Since he is playing, Arshdeep is not finding a place. He will always be there in my playing XI,” he added.
Arshdeep’s Death-Over Impact
Even though Arshdeep looked slightly off-rhythm in the previous game, he proved his worth under pressure by executing a near-perfect final over against Sri Lanka. His composure was further highlighted when captain Suryakumar Yadav entrusted him with the Super Over, where Sri Lanka could only muster two runs.
“He (Arshdeep) has delivered for us the last 2-3 years. I told him to back his own plans and try to execute. He has been there in that situation many times and he has done really well for India and for his IPL side. His confidence says it all. None other than Arshdeep to bowl that Super Over,” Surya said at the post-match presentation.
As India prepares for the title clash, many believe pairing Bumrah and Arshdeep in the final overs could give India the edge. Their combined yorker strength might be the difference between lifting the trophy and falling short.
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