Arshdeep Singh: Rising Star in Indian ODI Cricket
Arshdeep Singh's Passion for Bowling
Arshdeep Singh has openly shared that he enjoys watching YouTube videos featuring Wasim Akram and Zaheer Khan, focusing on mastering yorkers and reverse swing techniques.
He has effectively applied these skills in T20 internationals, becoming the first Indian bowler to surpass 100 wickets in this format.
Need for Consistency in ODIs
His recent performances against South Africa in the ODIs held in Ranchi and Raipur highlight the necessity for him to receive a steady opportunity in the 50-over format, which he has not consistently had.
While his individual figures of 2 for 64 and 2 for 54 may seem average, they tell a different story when compared to South Africa's totals of 332 and 362 for six.
Bowling Under Challenging Conditions
In both matches, Arshdeep bowled during South Africa's innings under challenging conditions, with heavy dew affecting play. Despite this, he maintained control, achieving the best economy rates among his fellow pacers—6.4 in Ranchi and 5.4 in Raipur.
In contrast, Harshit Rana allowed seven runs per over, while Prasidh Krishna struggled with an economy of 10.20.
Tactical Awareness and Improvement
Some may argue that Arshdeep bowled primarily when the ball was drier during the first Power Play and after the 44th over in the second ODI.
However, to effectively contain or dismiss skilled batters like Quinton de Kock and Marco Jansen on a solid pitch, a bowler must possess sharp tactical awareness and the ability to adapt to field placements.
Jaswant Rai, his childhood coach, emphasizes that Arshdeep has significantly improved in this area, showcasing a better understanding of conditions and the importance of varying his deliveries to remain unpredictable.
Crucial Contributions in Close Matches
Rai's observations are validated when reflecting on Arshdeep's performance in the first ODI, where he played a pivotal role in India's 17-run victory.
In his final spell, he conceded only 16 runs over three overs and took the crucial wicket of Nandre Burger, making a significant impact in a tightly contested match.
Looking Ahead to the Third ODI
As the series-deciding third ODI approaches in Vizag, Arshdeep is keen to bowl, especially since the high humidity levels—often reaching 70% at night—could mitigate the dew's impact if India bats second.
This would undoubtedly ease the challenges for him and his teammates, and his overall statistics since December 2023 reflect his growth and reliability.
Impressive Statistics and Future Prospects
In the last two years, Arshdeep has taken 16 wickets in 10 matches, boasting a commendable economy rate of five, second only to left-arm spinner Axar Patel's 4.43.
Despite his impressive performance, Arshdeep, who debuted in ODIs in November 2022, has only played 13 matches, while Harshit Rana, who made his debut in February 2025, has already participated in 10 ODIs.
Prasidh Krishna, with an economy rate of 9.33 in his last five ODIs, has played 20 matches since his debut in March 2021.
Preparing for the ICC World Cup 2027
With the ICC World Cup 2027 on the horizon, India requires reliable backup for leading pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, and Arshdeep has demonstrated that he can step up as a third pacer when needed.
It's time to correct some of these statistics and give him the opportunities he deserves.