Arshdeep Singh was left out of India’s playing XI for their opening match against the UAE.
Speaking about Arshdeep’s prospects for India’s next game against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak offered some insights. The right-arm pacer did not feature in India’s lineup on September 10 (Wednesday).
Asia Cup 2025: In a surprising move, India fielded only one frontline pacer, Jasprit Bumrah, against the UAE. The pace department was supplemented by seam-bowling all-rounders Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube, while spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy spearheaded the spin attack, with all-rounder Axar Patel providing additional support.
Arshdeep has been a consistent presence in India’s T20I squad over the past few years and is the team’s highest wicket-taker in the format, claiming 99 wickets in 63 matches. Asia Cup 2025, His omission from the opening game sparked criticism from fans and experts alike.
Asia Cup 2025: Playing XI to Be Decided Based on Wicket, Says Sitanshu Kotak
Indian batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has stated that the playing XI for India’s upcoming match against Pakistan will be determined after assessing the pitch conditions. He added that the final decision will rest with the head coach and the captain.
Asia Cup 2025: “Playing XI will be decided after having a look at the wicket. There is no agenda or personal preference. All 15 players are capable of playing; it ultimately depends on what the coach and captain decide,” Kotak said.
In India’s opening game against the UAE, spinner Kuldeep Yadav delivered a spectacular performance, taking four wickets and earning the Player of the Match award. Other bowlers making an impact included Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Varun Chakravarthy, and Jasprit Bumrah.
Asia Cup 2025: India dominated the UAE, securing a nine-wicket victory to start the tournament on a high. The Suryakumar Yadav-led side dismissed UAE for just 57 runs and chased the target in only 4.3 overs. India will next face Pakistan on September 14 (Sunday) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
