Published: Sep 27, 2025, 12:28 PM (IST)
Edited: Sep 27, 2025, 12:28 PM (IST)
Former India cricketer Irfan Pathan believes Arshdeep Singh deserved to be in the Asia Cup 2025 final squad after his outstanding performance against Sri Lanka in the Super Over on Friday. Notably, the left-arm pacer held his nerve and took two wickets in the Super Over, conceding only two runs. Thanks to him, India extended their unbeaten streak with a stunning win.
Pathan emphasized Arshdeep’s importance in the death overs, citing his ability to bowl yorkers on a consistent basis, similar to Jasprit Bumrah. He added that the 26-year-old knows how to bowl well under pressure.
“Look, first of all, he’s as cool as ice, mate. Under pressure, he asks for the ball. He bowls when it matters, and whenever it’s the last over, he nails the yorkers. He’s ready. Shoulder to shoulder with Bumrah, he delivers those yorkers. I think he’s a bowler of that quality,†Pathan told broadcasters after the match.
Pathan also revealed that Arshdeep is sometimes left out of the playing XI because the team management prefers to play an additional batter and gives Shivam Dube a position at the expense of the pacer. He also stated that Arshdeep deserves to be a member of the playing XI at all times since it is critical to have bowlers delivering yorkers from both ends in crunch circumstances.
“I’ve been saying this from day one — it’s not just about today. He should always be in the playing XI, because there are situations when you need yorkers from both ends. You saw it yourself today — the match went right down to the wire,” Pathan stated.
“But the team thought we needed longer batting. And if you want longer batting, then Shivam Dube plays as an all-rounder. Now, if he’s playing, Arshdeep doesn’t get a spot. But in my team, Arshdeep will always be there. And I’ve been saying this from the very first day,†he added.
Meanwhile, India will face arch-rival Pakistan in the Asia Cup final on September 28. It will be the first time in history that the two teams will face off in the competition final. The Men in Blue have already defeated Salman Ali Agha and his team twice in the ongoing tournament, and they will be hoping for a third victory in the crucial final.
