Arshdeep Singh, India’s leading T20 bowler, has once again made headlines — not for his bowling this time, but for being left out of the playing XI in recent matches. With over 100 wickets in T20 Internationals, Arshdeep remains the only Indian bowler to achieve this feat. He was also instrumental in India’s win at the Hobart T20, where he earned the Player of the Match award. Given such performances, fans have been questioning why he isn’t consistently part of the lineup.

Indian bowling coach Morne Morkel has now cleared the air. Speaking ahead of the fourth T20I, Morkel revealed that resting Arshdeep is part of the team’s strategic rotation plan.

Why Arshdeep Was Benched
Explaining the decision, Morkel said, “Arshdeep Singh is an experienced and world-class bowler. He’s taken crucial wickets for us, especially in the powerplay. But at this stage, we are experimenting with different combinations. Arshdeep understands this strategy and supports the team’s vision.”

Morkel also admitted that such calls are never easy. “It’s not simple. Players do feel disappointed when left out, but ahead of the T20 World Cup, it’s vital to test all available options,” he added.

Arshdeep to Return in the Fourth T20I
Arshdeep Singh is confirmed to play in the fourth T20I, a must-win game for India. A loss would mean conceding the series, making his inclusion even more crucial. The left-arm pacer has an excellent record against Australia — 10 wickets in six T20Is — proving his effectiveness against their batting lineup.

Overall, Arshdeep has taken 104 wickets in 66 T20 Internationals, underscoring his value as one of India’s most reliable wicket-takers in the shortest format. His return is expected to bolster India’s bowling attack as they aim to level the series.