Why is Arshdeep Singh Not Playing Against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025?

India’s pace superstar Arshdeep Singh was notably absent from the playing XI in their Asia Cup opener against the UAE, and now he is also missing the high-stakes clash against Pakistan. His exclusion has sparked frustration among fans, especially given his reputation as a dependable T20I fast bowler for India.

Arshdeep has been excellent for India in the T20 format. He played a key role in India's T20 World Cup win in 2024 and formed a threatening fast bowling combination alongside Jasprit Bumrah. However, he hasn't found a place in the Playing 11 despite being one of the best in the format.

Arshdeep Singh IND vs PAK Exclusion: Talented Pacer Misses Out Again

Under the tenure of head coach Gautam Gambhir, the Indian T20I setup seems to be leaning toward a batting-heavy combination with plenty of all-round options. This strategy has seen the inclusion of both Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube, all-rounders who can chip in with the ball, while leaving out a second specialist pacer.

As a result, India has gone with just one frontline fast bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, who is the best bowler in the world. Unfortunately, the leading wicket-taker for the Indian team in the shortest format, Arshdeep Singh, has to warm the bench in yet another game as the team management has decided to go with an extra spinner and plenty of all-rounders for the IND vs PAK Asia Cup 2025 game.

R Ashwin Bats for Arshdeep Singh's Inclusion

While previewing the upcoming game on his YouTube channel, former India spinner R Ashwin too didn’t hold back his thoughts on Arshdeep Singh’s omission from the playing 11. Ashwin said leaving Arshdeep out should raise serious concerns within the bowling fraternity.

Arshdeep Singh: India’s Leading Wicket-Taker in T20Is

Arshdeep Singh, India’s highest wicket-taker in T20 Internationals, remains on the bench, stuck on 99 wickets since the end of the T20I series against England. It’s not a question of form either. Arshdeep Singh Asia Cup performance has also been impressive. The left-arm pacer had an excellent Indian Premier League season, heading the Punjab Kings’ attack and finishing with 21 wickets from 17 games, making him one of the best bowlers in IPL.

He has been a key part of India's T20I set-up because of his impressive performances in the format. Arshdeep has improved significantly with the new ball and is excellent in the death overs as well. It remains to be seen when he gets to play his first match in this Asia Cup.