As the Indian cricket team unveiled its squad for the much-anticipated five-Test tour of England, one name stood out like a beacon: Arshdeep Singh. The left-arm pacer’s inclusion sparked a whirlwind of questions and debates. Is Arshdeep truly ready for the rigors of Test cricket? What unique qualities does he bring to the table that convinced the selectors to hand him this golden opportunity?
To understand Arshdeep’s prowess, one needs to revisit his standout performances in the shorter formats, particularly with the new ball. A shining example is his spell during the India-South Africa ODI at the Wanderers last year. In just two deliveries, he left an indelible mark. The first ball, pitching on middle and leg, deviated late to beat Reeza Hendricks’ outside edge. The second, a sharp inswinger, shattered Hendricks’ stumps, leaving the batter bewildered. These deliveries highlighted Arshdeep’s ability to generate late movement, a trait that could prove invaluable in English conditions. Coupled with his left-arm angle, it’s easy to see why the Indian think tank has placed their faith in him.
However, Arshdeep’s journey has not been without challenges. At times, he has struggled to consistently execute the inswinger, a concern he has been diligently addressing. During the 2025 Champions Trophy, he spent countless hours in the nets refining this aspect of his game. His efforts have shown promise, with glimpses of improved inswing delivery during the ongoing IPL season.
Another critical aspect of Arshdeep’s game that warrants scrutiny is his effectiveness with the older ball. A case in point is his performance in the Duleep Trophy clash between India A and India D last year. On a seamer-friendly pitch, he dismissed Riyan Parag in the 17th over with a well-executed plan. Later, he outfoxed Kumar Kushagra by switching to a round-the-wicket angle, inducing a false shot to the gully. While Arshdeep does possess a hint of reverse swing, England’s conditions may limit his opportunities to exploit this skill.
The selectors’ decision to include Arshdeep over other left-arm contenders like Yash Dayal and Khaleel Ahmed underscores their belief in his swing-bowling prowess. His stint with Kent in county cricket further bolsters his credentials. Whether this bold move pays off remains to be seen, but Arshdeep’s journey promises to be a fascinating subplot in India’s England tour.
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