Image Credit: BCCI
Ponting Backs Arshdeep Singh for Test Debut in England
Former Australian captain and Punjab Kings coach Ricky Ponting has thrown his weight behind left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh, recommending his inclusion in India’s playing XI for the first Test against England. Scheduled to begin on June 20, 2025, at Headingley, the match marks the start of a crucial five-match Test series for India on English soil.
Ponting, who has worked closely with Arshdeep in the IPL, praised his temperament and potential to thrive in seam-friendly conditions. “I’ve had a good chance to get to know him really well. He’s a great character to have around the team… I think it’s well deserved. I think he’ll bowl well in England as well,” Ponting said.
Arshdeep’s inclusion would mark his debut in the longest format, following consistent performances in domestic cricket and an impactful stint in white-ball internationals, where he has already claimed 99 wickets in 63 T20Is.
Suitability for English Conditions
Ponting pointed out Arshdeep’s height, swing capabilities, and county cricket experience as key advantages. The 6’4″ left-arm seamer played five matches for Kent in the County Championship, collecting 13 wickets, which gave him valuable exposure to English pitches and the Dukes ball.
“He’s played county cricket and he knows the conditions there as well,” Ponting observed. “To have someone that’s got that swing bowling ability and a left-armer, I think is something that the Indian team should definitely look out for on that tour.”
Arshdeep’s natural angle and movement could be pivotal for India, especially in overcast conditions that often favor swing bowlers. His presence could also help create wicket-taking pressure from both ends.
Rotation Likely Amid Bumrah Workload Management
With fast-bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah unlikely to play all five Tests due to workload considerations, Arshdeep’s inclusion becomes even more probable. India’s pace unit, comprising Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, and Prasidh Krishna, could benefit from the variety Arshdeep brings with his left-arm action.
Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar has emphasized the need to manage Bumrah’s fitness wisely. “We’d rather have him bowling as well as he does than putting that extra burden on him,” Agarkar said, reinforcing the strategy to rotate bowlers over the grueling series.
Eyes on Leeds as India Prepares for First Test
The prospect of Arshdeep Singh making his Test debut adds an exciting dimension to India’s squad as they gear up for the Headingley Test. With Ponting’s endorsement and his proven skill set in overseas conditions, Arshdeep could be the X-factor in India’s pace arsenal.
As the countdown begins for the high-stakes series, team India is expected to finalize its XI in the coming weeks, with Arshdeep’s name now a strong contender for a starting role.
