'His inclusion is essential, he's a must' - Irfan Pathan on Arshdeep Singh's position in India's T20I team

Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan feels Arshdeep Singh does not warrant to be benched while playing for India in the future. Arshdeep secured the Player of the Match award for his 3/35 in the third T20I of the ongoing five-match series against Australia.

Irfan pointed out how effective the left-armer has been during the first six overs of matches. He also emphasised that Arshdeep keeps on proving why he is essential to the team whenever opportunities come his way.

"Arshdeep was played, and as soon as he was included, he showed why. He has taken 45 wickets in the powerplay so far. Since his debut, no one has taken more wickets with the new ball in the powerplay than Arshdeep. That's why we've been saying again and again that Arshdeep's inclusion is essential, he is a must. And once again, he showed why," stated Irfan Pathan in a video on his YouTube channel.

Irfan, who was himself a left-arm bowler, lauded Arshdeep for delivering on most occasions despite not being a regular in the T20I unit. He also hoped that Arshdeep does not get benched from now onwards.

"Credit to Arshdeep. Even without playing regularly, the way he has performed whenever he's got a chance is commendable. Very well done. Now the hope is that he doesn't get dropped again, that he continues to play in the regular XI. Especially after this performance, there should be absolutely no reason to bench him," he added.

Arshdeep's spell comprised 10 dot balls and he picked the big wickets of Travis Head, Josh Inglis and Marcus Stoinis as the Men in Blue went onto level the five-match series with the five-wicket win.

Arshdeep's T20I tally inccreased to 104 wickets in 66 matches. As of November 3, 2025, the left-armer remains the only Indian to have picked up 100 T20I wickets. India will play the fourth T20I on November 6 in Carrara.