In the 2025 Asia Cup, India picked only one main fast bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, in their playing XI. Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube were used as fast-bowling all-rounders, giving India eight batting options and more depth. But former all-rounder Irfan Pathan thinks this plan is risky because dew might affect the matches, especially the Super Four clash against Pakistan on September 21. He explained that if the ball gets wet, captain Suryakumar Yadav could struggle to use three spinners effectively. Pathan suggested that including Arshdeep Singh in the team could help fix this issue.
The 40-year-old Pathan also worried whether Hardik and Dube can bowl yorkers regularly.
Pathan said he still stands by his earlier opinion before the Asia Cup. He wants to see Arshdeep play alongside Jasprit Bumrah, as there might be situations where India needs a second fast bowler. If the ball gets wet, can Hardik Pandya really bowl six yorkers, or can Shivam Dube deliver them consistently under pressure?
That’s the question. Pathan added that picking Arshdeep would be smart, but it’s tough to change a team that has been winning. Dropping a batter isn’t easy either. “I would have chosen differently, but the team management has its own plans,” he said.
Abhishek Nayar: India May Choose Arshdeep or Another Batter
India rested Bumrah and Chakaravarthy in their last match against Oman, giving Arshdeep and Harshit Rana a chance to play. However, Abhishek Nayar believes that India will use the same team that played the first two games when they face Pakistan.
“It looks like Varun Chakaravarthy will come back, which will be one confirmed change. Whether they include Arshdeep or another batter is still uncertain. I think the team will mostly stay the same as before, with few changes,” he said.
“The former Indian team assistant coach said that India’s current team setup suits the conditions in the UAE.”
“The spin bowlers have been effective in Dubai. Bumrah is back, and Hardik is bowling well. Do you really need a third fast bowler? Dube has bowled decently and done his job, giving one or two overs when needed. Overall, the team’s combination is suitable for these conditions,” Nayar said.
FAQ
Why did Irfan Pathan suggest playing Arshdeep Singh with Bumrah?
He believes having a second specialist fast bowler is important, especially if dew affects spinners during the India-Pakistan Super Four match.
How is India currently balancing their bowling attack?
India is playing only one specialist seamer, Jasprit Bumrah, while Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube are used as fast-bowling all-rounders.
What concerns did Pathan raise about Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube?
He questioned their ability to bowl consistent yorkers under pressure, especially in challenging conditions with dew.
What is Abhishek Nayar’s opinion on India’s team combination?
Nayar feels the current team is well-balanced for UAE conditions, with effective spin options and strong bowling from Bumrah and Hardik.
