Why is Arshdeep Singh Not Playing Today in IND vs AFG 3rd ODI?

The last match of the Afghanistan Tour of India 2026 will be played as IND vs AFG 3rd ODI, which is being played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. The hosts, the Indian Cricket Team, have already sealed the ODI series 2-0 and will be looking for a whitewash against Afghanistan with a win in the 3rd ODI.

The Indian Cricket Team has dominated the series throughout, from the one-off test match to the ODI series. As India already has an edge over the series, they have made a few changes in the line-up, allowing every player to get a chance on the field, which also allows management to track players accordingly for the ICC World Cup 2027. The 3rd ODI saw India's left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh missing from the Playing XI. Let's find out the reason behind Arshdeep Singh's absence and who is Arshdeep Singh replacement in IND vs AFG 3rd ODI.

Why is Arshdeep Singh Not Playing Today in 3rd ODI?

Arshdeep Singh, one of the best bowlers in India, is not playing today against Afghanistan in the 3rd ODI as he has been rested for the match, keeping in mind a long cricket season for the cricketer from IPL to this series, which will be followed by the England tour as well. The left-arm pacer has proved his worth in the ODI side as well by bowling efficiently and scalping crucial wickets in the early overs, as well as in the middle overs. In this IND vs AFG 3rd ODI, Prasidh Krishna has been announced as Arshdeep Singh replacement, who will be looking to maximise his chance in this match.

Arshdeep Singh Performance in AFG ODI Series

During the India vs Afghanistan ODI series, Arshdeep Singh played a key role in India’s bowling attack with an impressive performance. The left-arm pacer took 5 wickets in just two matches, maintaining a great average of 14.40 and an economy rate of 5.14.

In the first ODI at Dharamshala, he picked up 2 wickets for 27 runs and put Afghanistan’s top order under pressure early on. In the second match at Lucknow, he took 3 for 45, breaking the lower-middle order and helping India secure a big 170-run win. He was rested for the final game, but his performances in the first two matches played a major part in India’s series victory.