Former India Player Backs Arshdeep Singh, Says He Can Play 'All Three Formats'

Arshdeep has played 26 matches in T20Is for India where he has 41 wickets under his belt.

Cricketer turned commentator Aakash Chopra lauded India’s young pacer Arshdeep Singh and said he can play all three formats of the game. Singh has been added to India’s squad that will be taking part in the upcoming Asian Games, beginning on September 23. Chopra while speaking on his Youtube channel said that he is surprised to see Arshdeep’s name in India's squad for Asian Games.

Recently, the BCCI announced the Indian squad for the Asian Games where Ruturaj Gaikwad has been handed over the captaincy duty. Rinku Singh who had a great IPL for Kolkata Knight Riders last season also got a place in the squad.

“I am surprised Arshdeep Singh's name is in this team. I am surprised because they are not considering him for ODIs at all. You didn't consider him for the T20Is as well in the West Indies. Now you are not considering him for the Asia Cup and are already keeping him out of the World Cup list. What has happened?,” said Chopra.

Chopra also added that the Punjab-based pacer can play all three formats for India. So far, he has played 26 matches in T20Is for India where he has 41 wickets under his belt.

“When I see Arshdeep Singh, it seems like there is a huge upside, he is a player for the long haul and can play all three formats, at least both white-ball formats, but they have not kept him currently. I am a little intrigued about Mukesh Kumar. He is part of all three formats for the West Indies tour. He is in the ODI team as well, so he might be in the race for the Asia Cup as well but you have removed him from the World Cup race,” Chopra added.

According to the former India cricketer, the Indian team will need a fast bowling option apart from Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Mohammed Siraj going into the World Cup.

“Maybe you are thinking Bumrah, Shami and everyone will be fit there. Bumrah, Shami, Siraj - who will be the fourth one? That will be a question. Arshdeep or Mukesh Kumar could have been there but they are not there. So is Umran Malik that player who the Indian team is thinking about because you will need a fourth pacer?” said Chopra.