When India named their playing XI for their 2025 Asia Cup opener against UAE, many eyebrows were raised as to why Arshdeep Singh wasn't included in the line-up. Arshdeep Singh, who is a promising fast bowler, was left out of the XI, with India opting for three spinners in Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, and Axar Patel.
The absence of Singh prompted former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra to raise questions on Team India's selection. In the pace department, India went with only one proper pacer in Jasprit Bumrah, who was assisted by all-rounders Shivam Dube and Hardik Pandya. Notably, Arshdeep is India’s highest wicket-taker in T20Is with 99 wickets at an average of 18.30 in 63 matches.
“I think this playing XI has a Champions Trophy hangover. That was in March, and it was dusty. I’ve never seen that square as dry as it was in March in Dubai. But this is September, and they’ve gone with the same tactic, albeit in a different format. Is that really the way India are going to plan? You have to pick your best team," Chopra said on ESPNCricinfo.
"Arshdeep Singh. 99 wickets, Arshdeep Singh has got more wickets, better numbers than Jasprit Bumrah in T20s for India," Chopra added.
India, meanwhile, registered a nine-wicket win against UAE, starting off their Asia Cup campaign on a staggering note. They bowled UAE out for a paltry total of 57 before chasing it in 4.3 overs.