Sports

IIE DIGITAL DESK :  Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh is reportedly set to receive his maiden Test call-up for the upcoming India vs England Test series. With the Indian team management keen on bolstering their pace attack for the high-profile series, Arshdeep’s consistent performances in white-ball cricket and domestic red-ball outings have put him firmly on the selectors’ radar.

The Punjab left-arm fast bowler, known for his ability to swing the ball both ways and maintain a calm temperament under pressure, has been a regular name in India’s T20 and ODI squads over the past two years. Now, his elevation to the longest format appears imminent as India prepares to face a strong England side in a multi-Test series, expected to begin in early 2025.

Sources within the BCCI suggest that Arshdeep’s inclusion is part of a broader strategy to introduce fresh pace-bowling options as the team transitions from seasoned names like Umesh Yadav and Mohammed Shami, who have been managing workloads and injuries. With the Indian pace battery already featuring Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Mukesh Kumar, Arshdeep’s entry could add variety with his left-arm angle and ability to exploit subcontinental and overseas conditions alike.

“He’s worked hard on his red-ball game and impressed with his control and fitness,” a BCCI official said, on condition of anonymity. “This is a good time to test his potential in the longer format.”

Arshdeep has also shown promise in first-class cricket, having featured in domestic tournaments such as the Ranji Trophy and India A matches. His ability to consistently bowl in the right areas and extract bounce has drawn praise from former cricketers and coaches alike. While his red-ball stats may not yet be eye-popping, his growing maturity and adaptability have become difficult for selectors to overlook.

Cricket pundits believe Arshdeep’s temperament and skillset make him well-suited for Test cricket. “He’s not express pace, but he’s very smart with his lengths and movement. In England or even on turning Indian tracks, he can trouble batters,” said former India pacer Ashish Nehra.

India’s pace attack has evolved considerably in recent years, with players like Bumrah and Siraj delivering match-winning spells both at home and abroad. However, the addition of a left-arm pacer, especially one who brings in variation and control, could be crucial in a series that is expected to test bowlers’ endurance and creativity.

The England Test series is expected to be a crucial part of India’s World Test Championship campaign, and team selection is likely to reflect both long-term planning and tactical flexibility. If Arshdeep Singh indeed receives his Test debut during the series, it would mark yet another chapter in his impressive rise through the ranks.

As fans await the official squad announcement, all eyes will be on Arshdeep and the new energy he could bring to India’s red-ball setup.