Former India cricketer Salil Ankola recalled how he was left quite impressed with Arshdeep Singh's work ethic during his time in the selection committee (Jan 2023 - Aug 2024). It was during this time that the left-arm pacer became a mainstay in the national team's T20I set-up and racked up a massive number of scalps.
Ankola, who himself was a seamer during his playing days, remarked that Arshdeep also knows very well how to handle pressure and deliver for his team in crunch situations. He further stated that the latter would work incredibly hard in the nets and would work on all types of deliveries.
"I did about two tours with these guys (Indian team) as a selector. So, one thing which stood out, which I was really impressed with, was Arshdeep's work ethic, how he handles pressure and the kind of effort he puts in," Ankola told The Times of India.
"He always trained to a plan.Some bowlers are content after 20 or 25 balls in the nets but Arshdeep would keep going - yorkers, slower balls, wide yorkers, bouncers. There was an eagerness to master his craft. And what helps is having someone like Jasprit Bumrah around, unlike in our days when we had to figure things out ourselves," he added.
Ankola further recalled how former India bowling coach Paras Mhambrey also worked quite hard with Arshdeep and added that the latter used to listen carefully whenever he was advised on his bowling.
"Paras and I, having played together, used to talk a lot about Arshdeep's bowling. Paras worked hard on him and Arshdeep listened. The most important thing is that Arshdeep used to keep his ears open and his mouth shut - something very uncommon these days. He grasps things very well and then implements them," Ankola stated.
Paras worked hard on his run-up and follow-through, which resulted in him becoming quicker. Earlier, his run-up was slightly diagonal. Now, its is straighter, which gives him rhythm and pace. His follow-through too is more direct. And the best part is how he uses the crease - something you don't often see anymore," he further added.
Arshdeep to be in action during Asia Cup
Meanwhile, Arshdeep was given a place in India's 15-member squad for Asia Cup 2025 and will be leading the side's pace attack alongside Jasprit Bumrah. The 26-year-old is just one wicket away from becoming the first Indian to pick up 100 wickets in the shortest format and is highly likely to achieve this feat in the upcoming tournament.