Former India all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin believes that Arshdeep Singh should be included in the playing XI against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 final, scheduled for 28 September.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said there is very little opportunity for the number eight batter to score significant runs, and therefore Arshdeep could be accommodated in that position.
“I’ll say this even with my glasses on! Even if you wake me up from deep sleep, my answer won’t change: Arshdeep must play,” Ashwin said. “How many runs will the number eight batsman make? Not too many – and you don’t need that many.”
Arshdeep has not had regular opportunities in the ongoing Asia Cup, with India opting to play an extra all-rounder in important matches. The left-arm pacer featured in India’s final group-stage match, once the team had already qualified for the Super Four stage. India’s highest wicket taker in T20Is, Arshdeep was then benched for the first two Super Four matches but returned in the final game against Sri Lanka, where he bowled a brilliant Super Over that made India’s win comfortable. He conceded just two runs and took two wickets in that over.
Ashwin also commented that the team management needs to invest more in developing lower-order batters ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup.
“And for the World Cup in six months, work on Arshdeep’s batting, work on Varun Chakravarthy’s batting. Bumrah can already hit a bit – he’s got a decent bat swing. The batting coach needs to spend more time with these guys,” Ashwin said.
Ashwin also praised Arshdeep’s hitting ability lower down the order.
“Batting practice in T20s needs to be situational. Typically, an eighth batter might only get 4–6 balls, unless it’s a bad day. The goal is to maximise those deliveries – and Arshdeep has that long handle,” he added.
India are set to face Pakistan in the final on Sunday, with the Asia Cup title at stake. Jasprit Bumrah and Shivam Dube, who were rested for the previous match, are likely to replace Arshdeep and Harshit Rana in the playing XI.
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