Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri has pointed out that India’s bowling in the first test match against South Africa has been very fragile and the team management should look to include the left-arm seamer Arshdeep Singh in the playing XI.
Shastri feels that whenever India is playing in overseas conditions, Arshdeep Singh could be an important asset for the team. Arshdeep’s skill lies in his ability to swing the ball, especially with the new ball. He has demonstrated effectiveness in swinging the new ball away from right-handers, distinguishing himself from simply angling it across.
Arshdeep’s remarkable performance was visible during his time in South Africa, particularly in his adept handling of the white ball. His standout performance occurred in the ODI series against South Africa on December 17, 2023, in Johannesburg, where he impressively secured five wickets for 37 runs.
While having a conversation with Star Sports, Ravi Shastri said, “Two bowlers were decently experienced – Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. But then, they missed Shami big time in this Test match. Yes, Shardul has experience. He (Shardul) is not a baby, but he is not the third seamer. You need a proper third seamer in overseas conditions.”
Ravi Shastri highlighted the first-class record of Arshdeep where the bowler has got 38 wickets in 12 matches he has played so far. Arsheep Singh has also shown his ability in the longest format of the game. In the earlier part of 2023, Arshdeep signed a contract with Kent to participate in five County Championship games.
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“The fact is, you have to see his (Arshdeep) first-class record. Can he bowl long spells? Has he played a lot of Ranji Trophy cricket? I would make him go and play a lot of Ranji Trophy cricket. First-class cricket. I would keep him in the mix because if someone can swing it like he did with the white ball in South Africa, he could be a handy customer here,” Shastri added.
