India’s decision to leave out pacer Arshdeep Singh from the playing XI in their Asia Cup 2025 opener against the UAE on Tuesday sparked widespread debate. Despite being India’s leading wicket-taker in T20Is, Arshdeep was relegated to the bench, raising eyebrows over the team’s selection strategy.

In India’s opening match, the team management opted for a pace trio comprising Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, and Shivam Dube, leaving no room for Arshdeep or fellow pacer Harshit Rana in the starting lineup. The exclusion of a bowler with Arshdeep’s proven track record has prompted questions about the selection dynamics within the squad.