Three Tests of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 being held in England have been played. The host team defeated India in the third Test at Lord’s and took a 2-1 lead in the series. On this, former England cricketer Monty Panesar said that Arshdeep Singh should have played in the Test series from the beginning.
India’s left-arm pacer has been included in the Test squad for the five-match tour of England. However, he is the only fast bowler in the squad who has not played any match yet.
Arshdeep has experience of playing in English conditions
Arshdeep not only makes a different impact on the game with his left-arm bowling, but he also has a great understanding of bowling in the English environment due to his experience in county cricket.
Panesar said that he is surprised to see Arshdeep not playing in the first Test as he can bowl with a good angle and can prove to be very useful in English conditions.
India Today quoted Panesar as saying, “Arshdeep Singh should play. I am surprised that he could not play the first Test match. He can bowl with a good angle and the left-arm fast bowler will prove to be a good option for the Indian team. His performance should be very good in these conditions of England.”
‘Jasprit Bumrah should play the next match’
Before the series, head coach Gautam Gambhir had said that Jasprit Bumrah would play only three out of five matches. The Gujarat pacer has played two of the first three Tests so far, and Panesar believes he should be a part of the fourth Test in Manchester.
“Jasprit Bumrah should play the next match. It is an important match for India. They have to field their best attack. Bumrah has to play the next Test. It is the fastest and bounciest pitch in England, so he has to play,” he said.
FAQ
Who made the statement about Arshdeep Singh’s inclusion?
Former England spinner Monty Panesar made the comment, expressing surprise that Arshdeep Singh was not part of the Indian team from the first Test.
What did Monty Panesar say about Arshdeep Singh?
Panesar said Arshdeep should have been included from the very first Test match, indicating that his skills could have made a difference early in the series.
Why does Panesar think Arshdeep is important for the team?
Arshdeep brings left-arm pace variation, swing in English conditions, and the ability to trouble right-hand batters—qualities valuable in Test cricket.
Was Arshdeep part of the Test squad initially?
Arshdeep Singh was part of the wider squad but was not picked in the playing XI for the early Tests, which surprised many, including Panesar.
