'When the time is right' – Arshdeep Singh reveals message from team management regarding red-ball prospects

North Zone defeated West Zone by 52 runs in the Duleep Trophy 2026 quarter-final at BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru from August 23 to 26, 2026. Arshdeep Singh delivered a match-winning performance with figures of 3 for 53 and 1 for 40 across the two innings. The victory secured North Zone's place in the semi-final against South Zone, which begins on Sunday, August 30.

Arshdeep Singh returned to red-ball cricket after almost a year away from the format. The left-arm pacer has represented India in 18 ODIs and 91 T20Is but remains without a Test debut. Across 23 first-class matches, he has accumulated 71 wickets at an average of 30.26, including two five-wicket hauls that demonstrate his capability in longer formats.

"I mean the message is to perform wherever you get a chance and just keep delivering, and when the time is right, you will get your chance," Singh told the Indian Express.

Message from team management on Test selection

The pacer's words reflected the guidance he has received from Indian team management regarding his pathway to Test selection. India have not fielded a left-arm pacer in Tests since Jaydev Unadkat, creating a clear opening in the squad composition. The team management has shown interest in developing options for this position.

Arshdeep's strong showing in the Duleep Trophy quarter-final demonstrated his readiness to compete for a place in the Test squad when the opportunity arises. His performance on the domestic stage has reinforced his credentials as a serious contender for red-ball cricket at the highest level.

Talking about the second quarter-final, North Zone posted 251 in their first innings before dismissing West Zone for 187. In their second innings, Kanhaiya Wadhawan-led North Zone were bowled out for 22.

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West Zone needed 287 runs to win in the fourth innings. However, they could only manage to get to 234 before being bowled out. Abid Mushtaq won the Player of the Match award for picking up nine wickets and scoring 23 runs across the two innings.