Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir faced under intense scrutiny after star pacer Arshdeep Singh was left out of the playing XI in the opening T20I of the 5-match series against Australia. The decision, made during the opening match in Canberra, triggered widespread criticism from fans and former players alike — with many questioning whether there’s an underlying issue between the coach and the bowler.
Fans Lash Out On Social Media
The omission quickly became one of the most discussed topics on social media, with the hashtag #JusticeForArshdeep trending across platforms. Several users accused Gambhir of favouritism and poor team selection.
One fan wrote, “Arshdeep Singh should be in the XI every game. He’s a proven match-winner and deserves respect.” Another added, “Does Gautam Gambhir have a personal problem with Arshdeep? Dropping him makes no cricketing sense.”
Experts Question Selection Logic
Cricket experts have also voiced concern over the decision. Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin expressed frustration, pointing out that Arshdeep has often been overlooked since Gambhir took over as coach. Analysts have questioned why a left-arm pacer, known for his accuracy and death bowling, was benched on a pitch expected to assist swing bowlers.
Many believe the decision reflects a pattern in India’s new team management, which prioritizes batting depth over bowling variety. Critics have labelled the move as “tactically flawed” and “a blow to India’s bowling balance.”
Arshdeep is India’s most successful T20I bowler
With 101 wickets from 65 matches, Arshdeep is India’s leading wicket-taker in T20Is. Arshdeep got two games during the 2025 T20 Asia Cup for India. He picked 1/37 and 1/46 in those outings versus Oman and Sri Lanka respectively.
Arshdeep has often thrived in pressure situations which earned him the reputation of being one of India’s most reliable death-overs specialists.
Dropping such a bowler, especially in a high-stakes series against Australia, has therefore raised eyebrows about the team’s overall strategy and selection transparency.
Gambhir Yet To Respond
As of now, Gambhir has not publicly addressed the criticism or explained the rationale behind Arshdeep’s exclusion. Sources within the team suggest the decision was based on “tactical considerations,” though no detailed reasoning has been shared officially.
With pressure mounting from fans, media, and former cricketers, the Indian team management will be expected to provide clarity in the coming days. If Arshdeep continues to remain sidelined, the debate surrounding Gambhir’s coaching approach and player management could intensify further.
The 1st T20I Sees No Result
The 1st Australia vs India T20I didn’t have any result. Rain played spoilsport with India doing well with the bat, scoring 97/1 in 9.4 overs.
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