gradientz.com – Global Reports & Smart Opinions

India have named an unchanged playing XI for their crucial Asia Cup 2025 clash against Pakistan. The omission of top wicket-taker Arshdeep Singh has sparked debate ahead of the match at Dubai.

Ravichandran Ashwin has strongly criticized the exclusion of Arshdeep Singh from India's team. Ashwin questioned the logic of prioritizing extra batting options over a specialist T20I bowler like Arshdeep, who boasts 99 T20I wickets. He emphasized the mental impact on bowlers consistently sidelined despite strong IPL and international performances, urging them to recognize their worth.

Team India, fresh off a dominant win against UAE in their Asia Cup 2025 opener, is keenly observing Afghanistan, a formidable T20 opponent. Key players like Sanju Samson and Hardik Pandya were seen analyzing Afghanistan's net practice, focusing on their explosive batting and diverse bowling attack.

India's Asia Cup 2025 began with a dominant win over UAE, but Suryakumar Yadav's sportsmanship stole the show. He withdrew a run-out appeal, earning praise from Ajinkya Rahane, who highlighted the gesture's significance. Rahane also commented on team balance, noting Arshdeep Singh's absence and suggesting his inclusion alongside Bumrah for quality pace bowling against stronger opponents later in the tournament.

Shivam Dube dismissed comparisons with Hardik Pandya, emphasizing his respect and learning from the star all-rounder. In the Asia Cup opener, India chose Dube over Arshdeep Singh, a strategic move that bolstered the batting lineup.

Sanju Samson has secured his place in India's playing XI for their Asia Cup clash in Dubai, despite speculation surrounding Shubman Gill's return and Tilak Varma's presence. India has strategically bolstered their batting lineup by including Shivam Dube and surprisingly excluding Arshdeep Singh. India won the toss and chose to bowl first.

India gears up for the T20 Asia Cup, aiming for their second title after their 2016 victory. Arshdeep Singh, with 99 T20I wickets, eyes a milestone as the team prepares to face UAE in their opener. The squad, led by Surya Kumar Yadav, includes key players like Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya.

Team India's head coach, Gautam Gambhir, delighted fans awaiting their arrival at the ICC Cricket Academy in Dubai by signing autographs. Arshdeep Singh and Axar Patel also interacted with fans, posing for photos and signing autographs.

Arshdeep Singh is on the cusp of becoming the first Indian bowler to claim 100 T20I wickets at the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 in Dubai. India's campaign starts on September 10 against the UAE, followed by a high-stakes match against Pakistan on September 14. The squad includes Surya Kumar Yadav as captain and Shubman Gill as vice-captain.

Arshdeep Singh, after an unfortunate injury during the England Test series, showcased his readiness in the Duleep Trophy quarterfinal. Despite not playing, he utilised his time in England to hone his skills, focusing on strength and conditioning.

Arshdeep Singh showcased his all-round abilities in the Duleep Trophy quarter-final, smashing two sixes in a cameo and later impressing with the ball. Aquib Nabi's hat-trick helped North Zone dominate East Zone, securing a substantial first-innings lead. Arshdeep's performance, after recovering from a thumb injury, will boost India's confidence ahead of the Asia Cup 2025.

Arshdeep Singh's Test debut in England was delayed due to injury and team selection, testing his patience. Punjab's bowling coach, Gagandeep Singh, believes Arshdeep should have been given a chance, given his swing bowling ability.

During a net session in Birmingham, a video surfaced showing Indian pacers Arshdeep Singh and Akash Deep playfully wrestling with bowling coach Morne Morkel. Arshdeep explained that Morkel initiated the wrestling as a fun way to conclude practice sessions. Despite the lighthearted moment, Team India is currently trailing 0-1 in the five-match series after a loss at Headingley.

Team India celebrated the one-year anniversary of their 2024 T20 World Cup victory in Birmingham, taking a break from Test match preparations. A video shared by the BCCI captured the team cutting a cake and reminiscing about their unbeaten run to the title. The players, including Bumrah, Pant and Jadeja, shared light-hearted moments and laughter, celebrating the unforgettable triumph.

AB de Villiers has expressed his surprise at reports suggesting Jasprit Bumrah will be rested for some of the ongoing Test series against England. De Villiers questioned the decision, drawing parallels to how South Africa managed Dale Steyn's workload, prioritising his availability for crucial Test matches.