As the cricketing world gears up for the Asia Cup 2023, India has already announced a formidable squad. However, two names conspicuously absent from the list are Arshdeep Singh and Umran Malik. Both players have shown immense promise and could be vital cogs for Team India in the future. Yet, their exclusion from the Asia Cup squad has raised a few eyebrows. One wonders, does this signify a closed door for them when it comes to the World Cup 2023?
While it’s natural to correlate Asia Cup performance with World Cup selection, history tells us otherwise. Many players have missed the continental extravaganza but have still donned the blue jersey in the grand event. Therefore, let’s examine why Arshdeep Singh and Umran Malik, despite not being in the Asia Cup 2023 squad, could still find themselves representing India in the World Cup later that year.
The Unlikely Warriors: The Case for Arshdeep Singh and Umran Malik in World Cup 2023:
#1 Arshdeep Singh: The Versatile Paceman
Arshdeep Singh, the left-arm seamer from Punjab, has been making waves in domestic cricket. He impressed everyone during the IPL 2021, where he consistently bowled at the death. Despite his young age, Arshdeep shows a maturity that belies his years. His ability to mix up deliveries and hold his nerve in pressure situations makes him a valuable asset.
Furthermore, Arshdeep’s left-arm angle provides a variation that the Indian bowling attack often lacks. This unique skill set enables him to create angles and awkwardness for the batsmen, especially in the powerplay and death overs. His economy rate of under 8 in T20s speaks volumes about his efficacy as a bowler.
#2 Umran Malik: The Speed Demon
Then we have Umran Malik, the young speedster from Jammu and Kashmir. Malik caught everyone’s attention during the IPL 2022, where he consistently clocked speeds north of 150 km/h. The cricketing fraternity sat up and took notice of this youngster who was bending his back and troubling seasoned campaigners.
Besides his sheer pace, Malik brings a raw aggression to his bowling, which has been a missing element in the Indian pace battery. The ability to bowl quick bouncers and toe-crushing yorkers makes him a lethal weapon. Moreover, his knack for picking up early wickets is exactly what India needs, particularly in overseas conditions where the ball swings and seams.
Why Both Deserve a Chance?
When we talk about high-stakes tournaments like the World Cup, experience often trumps talent. Yet, fresh blood brings a fearless approach and the “X-factor” that can turn games on their head. Arshdeep Singh, with his cool demeanour and versatile bowling options, can be a reliable go-to bowler for the captain. On the other hand, Umran Malik can be the wild card that disrupts opposition strategies with his electrifying pace.
Moreover, both players offer something different, filling gaps in the Indian bowling setup. Arshdeep’s left-arm angle and Malik’s sheer speed could be the extra dimensions that provide India an edge in the World Cup.
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Even though they haven’t made it to the Asia Cup 2023 squad, dismissing Arshdeep Singh and Umran Malik for the World Cup would be premature. Their skills, youth, and the unique elements they bring to the table make them strong contenders. India would do well to keep them in the reckoning, as these young guns could very well be the secret weapons in India’s World Cup arsenal.
