'Shreyas is ready to get back into Test arena... Arshdeep should be seriously considered': Punjab Kings coach's message to Agarkar and Gambhir

India's Test squad for England tour is likely to be announce on May 24. Ahead of the announcement, Punjab Kings (PBKS) bowling coach and former Australia all-rounder James Hopes wants maiden Test call-up for Arshdeep Singh and captain Shreyas Iyer's comeback.

Arshdeep is leading wicket-taker for PBKS in the ongoing season whereas Iyer is second-highest run-scorer. Hopes feels Arshdeep is well-suited for English conditions.

“He's perfectly suited for English conditions. He can swing the ball both ways, he can bowl reverse swing if required. He can bowl around the wicket as a left-armer seamer and still take it away from the right-hander,” Hopes told TOI.

“Shreyas is ready to get back into the Test arena. He's worked hard on his game over the last 12 months. He uses his hands so beautifully, which can be a real asset when you're playing in England. Both Iyer and Arshdeep should be seriously considered for the India squad,” he added.

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Iyer and Arshdeep will be in action when PBKS take on Delhi Capitals (DC) at Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur on May 24.

Arshdeep's red-ball numbers

26-year-old Arshdeep has played county cricket for Kent. He has become a vital part of India's limited-overs squad. In 21 first-class games, he has 66 wickets at an average of 30.37, including two five-wicket hauls.

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Iyer in previous Ranji season

Iyer proved his mettle for Mumbai in Ranji Trophy 2024-25. He scored 480 runs from seven innings at an average of 68.57, including two centuries. He scored a double century as well. His strike rate of 90.22 stood out of the lot.

Iyer's last Test appearance was against England in February 2024. On England soil, he has played just one Test and scored 34 runs.

Who will replace senior duo?

After Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's retirement from the format, the two spots are up for grabs in the batting order. Sai Sudharsan who will join India A on England tour after IPL 2025 is likely to open or bat at no.3. The fight for the no.4 spot will be between several players including Karun Nair, Ruturaj Gaikwad and others who are in India A squad.