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Arshdeep Over Prasidh, Akash Deep In 1st Test Vs ENG? India Have These Reasons To Pick Him

Rajgeeta Yadav

Arshdeep Singh likely to debut against England [Source: BCCI/X.com]Arshdeep Singh likely to debut against England [Source: BCCI/X.com]

Team India are all set for the upcoming Test series against England starting June 20 at Headingley, and there’s growing speculations that left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh might finally make his debut in Test cricket. 

Though he hasn’t played a red-ball match for India yet, his name is creating quite a buzz after being picked in the 18-member squad under new Test captain Shubman Gill.

Arshdeep has been in brilliant form recently. In IPL 2025, he was the top wicket-taker for Punjab Kings across 17 games, and now he might finally get a chance to prove himself in the longest format of the game. 

While India already has fast bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, and Akash Deep in the squad, here are some strong reasons why Arshdeep might be the one to start in the first Test.

1. Left-Arm Variety In India’s Pace Attack

Arshdeep brings something rare and valuable to the Indian pace unit, someone who can bowl fast with left hand. With the likes of Bumrah and Siraj in the mix, India’s current fast bowling attack heavily relies on right-arm pacers. Introducing a left-armer like Arshdeep adds much-needed variety, and swing options increase the chances to challenge England’s top-order batters even more.

Aged 26, Arshdeep could be the ideal third seamer along with Bumrah and Siraj, especially with his ability to bowl long spells under serious pressure making the attack more potent. The Men In Blue have long searched for a reliable left-arm pacer ever since Zaheer Khan retired in 2014, and Arshdeep could exactly be the right candidate to fill his shoes in order to take India's fast bowling to a right direction.

2. Proven Experience in English Conditions

The Punjab-born pacer isn’t unfamiliar with English pitches. He made his County Championship debut in 2023 with Kent and impressed in seamer-friendly conditions. In seven first-class matches there, he picked up 25 wickets at an average of 23.84 and an economy of just 2.92, strong numbers for any bowler in England.

In total, Arshdeep has played 21 first-class matches and taken 66 wickets at an average of 30.37. 

Arshdeep Singh's First Class Stats:

Mat
Wkts
Ave
Econ
4w
5w
216630.373.212

Notably, his performances for Kent in Division One included 13 wickets in just five games, showing his ability to adapt quickly to overseas conditions, something Prasidh and Akash Deep haven’t yet had the chance to prove.

Winding Up

With the series being played in England, conditions are expected to support pace bowlers, especially those who can swing the ball. Arshdeep Singh, with his unique skill set, recent form, and overseas experience, seems ready for his Test debut. While both Prasidh Krishna and Akash Deep are promising options, neither of them bring the complete package that Arshdeep Singh offers right now.

If India are looking for an X-factor in their bowling attack, Arshdeep might just be the answer.