Arshdeep Singh a VICTIM of ‘personal liking, disliking’? India coach breaks silence

Arshdeep Singh a VICTIM of ‘personal liking, disliking’? India coach breaks silence

India’s Batting Coach Sitanshu Kotak Addresses Rumors Surrounding Premier Pacer’s Exclusion

India’s National Cricket Team’s batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, has recently spoken out regarding the speculations surrounding the exclusion of premier pacer Arshdeep Singh from the playing XI. Kotak straightforwardly stated that there are no personal agendas involved in the selection process, with decisions being made solely based on the team’s requirements.

Arshdeep Singh: The Benched T20I Wicket-Taker

Arshdeep Singh, the 26-year-old pacer from Punjab, has found himself on the bench for the Indian National Cricket Team for an extended period. Despite being considered one of the best pacers globally and currently in peak fitness without any injury concerns, Singh has been struggling to secure a consistent spot in the Indian team across different formats. Despite being the leading wicket-taker for India in T20Is, he was notably dropped from the T20I playing XI, raising eyebrows among fans and critics alike.

Having last played an international match for India on February 12, 2025, Singh was sidelined throughout the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 series and omitted from the playing XI in India’s Asia Cup 2025 opener against the UAE.

Sitanshu Kotak Clarifies Team Selection Process

In response to the backlash and accusations of bias following Singh’s exclusion, Sitanshu Kotak shed light on the team selection process. Kotak emphasized that the coaching staff led by head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain are solely focused on the team’s success and make decisions based on what is best for the collective goal.

Kotak stated, “Whatever is best for the team, the captain and head coach will decide and do that. And I don’t think there is any doubt in anybody’s mind. So, whoever is not playing, they are always trying to help the guys who are playing.”

India’s Strategy and Success

Notably, India’s strategic approach in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, relying heavily on spinners and opting for a single frontline pacer like Jasprit Bumrah, proved successful as they clinched the title. This further validates the team’s emphasis on collective performance rather than individual preferences.

Overall, Sitanshu Kotak’s statements provide clarity on the team’s selection process, ensuring fans that decisions are made in the best interest of the team’s success. While Arshdeep Singh’s absence may raise concerns, the team’s focus remains on achieving their ultimate goals through a unified approach.

India’s National Cricket Team continues to strive for excellence, balancing individual talent with the team’s collective aspirations to achieve greater success on the international stage.

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