Arshdeep comes off age, all set to emulate Zaheer by becoming a potent left-arm seamer

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Arshdeep Singh’s rapid rise as one of India’s most improved bowlers is a speaks of his talent and also the pressing need for India to develop a broader pool of quality medium-pacers. With Jasprit Bumrah shouldering the immense responsibility of being India’s premier strike bowler across formats, the emergence of Arshdeep as a reliable left-arm option, particularly in T20 cricket, is indeed a welcome relief.

His record-breaking feat of surpassing Yuzvendra Chahal as India’s highest wicket-taker in T20s during the opening T20 match against England at the Eden Gardens is a significant milestone. It not only reflects his consistency but also signals a new era for Indian cricket, where the bowling attack is becoming more diversified and balanced. Arshdeep’s ability to swing the new ball, bowl pinpoint yorkers at the death, and use variations effectively has made him an indispensable part of the setup.

This achievement at a historic venue like the Eden Gardens adds a symbolic touch to his journey—a “new beginning” for both Arshdeep and Indian cricket. It shows how far he has come from being a promising talent to a match-winner on the international stage, providing much-needed support to Bumrah and ensuring India’s pace attack remains potent in the shortest format. With the right guidance and workload management, Arshdeep has the potential to cement his place as one of India’s leading bowlers in white ball cricket for years to come.

Like Zaheer Khan, Arshdeep combines precision with the ability to swing the ball both ways, making him a potent weapon in various conditions. What sets Arshdeep apart is not just his deceptive length but also his evolving mastery over his line. His knack for reading the batter’s intent and adjusting accordingly is a hallmark of a mature bowler. The management’s trust in his potential has been justified by his performances, especially in pressure situations. Arshdeep’s use of the odd short ball as a surprise element has often caught batters off guard, making him a versatile bowler who can succeed in all formats.

India has experimented with several pacers post-Zaheer Khan, but few have demonstrated the consistency and ability to deliver under pressure that Arshdeep has shown. His confidence and skill in swinging the ball either way, combined with his accuracy, give the Indian team a reliable left-arm option they’ve been seeking for years. With continued development, Arshdeep has the potential to become a mainstay in India’s bowling lineup and carry forward the legacy of impactful left-arm pacers.