Navjot Singh Sidhu Criticizes Team Management Over Player Selection in Test Match

Former cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu has voiced strong criticism against the Indian cricket team's management for their decision-making during the fifth Test match against England. Following an injury to bowler Akashdeep, Sidhu questioned why a fully fit Arshdeep Singh was not selected. His comments highlight concerns over the reliance on partially fit players, raising questions about the team's strategy and player welfare. This incident has sparked discussions among fans and analysts regarding the team's choices and future selections.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 4, 2025, 16:03 IST

Sidhu's Outburst Over Team Decisions

In the fifth Test match against England, former player Navjot Singh Sidhu expressed his displeasure regarding a decision made by India's head coach Gautam Gambhir and team captain Shubman Gill. On the fourth day of the match, Indian fast bowler Akashdeep sustained an injury, leading Sidhu to voice his concerns. He believes that the team has a fully fit fast bowler available, yet the management continues to select players who are only partially fit.

Sidhu remarked, "You are fielding Akashdeep with an injection, while left-arm fast bowler Arshdeep Singh remains on the bench. Why wasn't he played? Relying on half-fit bowlers is a mistake; it's a significant error."

It is noteworthy that Akashdeep's injury occurred while he was bowling during the fifth Test. England's Harry Brook hit a shot that struck Akashdeep on the shin, causing him considerable pain. Captain Gill was seen inquiring whether Akashdeep had received an injection. Sidhu's comments come in light of Arshdeep Singh not having played a single match in this series, despite his impressive performances in white-ball cricket for India. He has yet to make his Test debut.