Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has once again underlined the importance of Arshdeep Singh in India’s T20I setup, following the left-arm pacer’s brilliant display against Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 clash. Arshdeep bowled a dream Super Over on September 27, conceding just two runs and picking up two wickets to seal India’s victory emphatically.

Speaking on his YouTube show Ash ki Baat, Ravichandran Ashwin lauded the youngster’s temperament and consistency, insisting that Arshdeep is now an “irreplaceable” part of the Indian T20I squad. Despite being shuffled in and out of the XI due to the presence of Jasprit Bumrah, the 25-year-old has repeatedly shown why he deserves a permanent place.

Arshdeep was instrumental throughout the contest, dismissing Kamindu Mendis during the regular overs before producing a match-winning Super Over under immense pressure.

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“Before the Asia Cup itself, I kept saying Arshdeep Singh is absolutely mandatory in this Indian team. His spell in the Super Over just proved that point. What a terrific finish to the game,” Ravichandran Ashwin said.

The veteran also pointed out how Bumrah’s absence in the clash amplified the importance of Arshdeep’s contribution. “Yes, Jasprit Bumrah not playing was a huge miss, but he’ll be back for the final. Still, Arshdeep has once again given a great account of himself, showing why he is one of India’s premier bowlers,” he added.

Ashwin further highlighted how Arshdeep’s achievements often go unnoticed when Bumrah is in the side. During India’s triumphant 2024 T20 World Cup, while Bumrah dominated with his economy, it was Arshdeep who finished as the team’s highest wicket-taker with 17 wickets in just seven games, playing a pivotal role in the title win.

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“When Bumrah is there, no one really talks about Arshdeep Singh. But I’ll stick my neck out and say he is India’s premier bowler in this format. He has now completed 100 T20I wickets, and the way he has performed consistently makes him a massive asset for the team,” Ravichandran Ashwin concluded.

As India prepares for the Asia Cup 2025 final, the big question for the management is whether they can unleash Bumrah and Arshdeep together—a pace duo that could be a nightmare for any opposition.