Former Indian coach and commentator Ravi Shastri believes that the left-arm pacer Arsheep Singh can be a valuable asset for the Indian cricket team in Tests, especially in overseas conditions.
Shastri shared this opinion after Indian bowlers’ poor performance in the Boxing Day Test against South Africa in Centurion, where the tourists suffered an innings and 32-run defeat on Thursday.
What makes Arshdeep stand out is his impressive ability to swing the ball. Unlike merely angling it across, he effectively swings the new ball away from right-handers. Arshdeep's skill was evident during the ODI series in South Africa, where he showcased his proficiency with the white ball.
Shastri believes that Arshdeep's unique skills, especially his ability to swing the ball, could make a significant impact for Team India in Test cricket during the overseas tours.
Ravi Shastri said on Star Sports: “Two bowlers were decently experienced – Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. But then, they missed Mohammad Shami big time in this Test match. Yes, Shardul Thakur has experience. He (Shardul) is not a baby, but he is not the third seamer. You need a proper third seamer in overseas conditions.”
Arshdeep has so far taken 38 wickets with an average of 29.97 and an economy rate of 3.12 in 12 first-class matches, and he has the capability to bowl long spells, which is required in Test cricket.
Shastri further said, “The fact is, you have to see his (Arshdeep's) first-class record. Can he bowl long spells? Has he played a lot of Ranji Trophy cricket? I would, in fact, make him go and play a lot of Ranji Trophy cricket. Frist-class cricket. I would keep him in the mix because if someone can swing it like he did with the white-ball in South Africa, he could be a handy customer here.”
(With Star Sports/PTI Inputs)
