Ravichandran Ashwin launched a passionate defence of Arshdeep Singh after the left-arm pacer was benched for the first two ODIs against New Zealand, questioning the Gautam Gambhir-led team management’s decision to sideline a proven match-winner. The former India spinner warned that keeping Arshdeep on the bench would make him rusty and hurt his confidence, especially with the T20 World Cup starting in February.

Ashwin’s fiery outburst on YouTube

On his YouTube channel, Ashwin delivered an emotional rant after seeing Arshdeep warm the bench while Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana got match practice in the India vs New Zealand ODI series. “What must he be thinking right now? He has done so much, yet he is still fighting for his spot. Whenever he plays next, he will be rusty. No matter what you say, this is a game of confidence,” Ashwin said.

The legendary off-spinner revealed he has been in Arshdeep’s shoes before and knows exactly how it feels to be left out despite performing consistently. “I have been in this position, so I know how it is. This is why I am fighting for Arshdeep Singh. Whenever you have given him the ball, he has performed for you. Allow him to walk into the playing XI with his head held high. He deserves this boss,” Ashwin added.

Why was Arshdeep benched?

India captain Shubman Gill announced a six-man bowling lineup for the first ODI that included Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana, and Prasidh Krishna as the three pacers, with no room for Arshdeep. The team management’s explanation was that Prasidh and Harshit needed match practice ahead of future assignments, including the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa.

Arshdeep had played all three ODIs against South Africa in December 2025, picking up five wickets at an average under 31 as India won the series 2-1. His sudden exclusion surprised fans and commentators, with many questioning why a consistent performer was being dropped for players who needed game time.

Ashwin questions double standards

Ashwin pointed out the difference in how batters and bowlers are treated by team management when it comes to rotation and rest. “Why does this happen to the bowlers at all times? It never happens with the batters,” he said. He stressed that Arshdeep is a wicket-taking bowler who swings the new ball and bowls yorkers with the old ball, exactly the skills India needs.

The former India spinner also dismissed suggestions that Arshdeep was rested for the T20 World Cup, noting that he hasn’t been an automatic starter in T20Is since Gambhir took over as head coach. “Now people are saying he will play the third ODI. What is the point? He didn’t play the first two ODIs, and why did that happen? What will that do to his confidence?” Ashwin asked.

Arshdeep finally gets a chance

After missing the first two ODIs, Arshdeep has been named in India’s playing XI for the series decider against New Zealand in Indore, replacing Prasidh Krishna. The move comes too late for Ashwin’s liking, but at least gives the left-arm pacer a chance to prove his worth before the T20 World Cup begins on February 7. Whether this will be enough to restore his confidence after sitting out two crucial games remains to be seen.