Arshdeep Singh is highly adaptable, whether it’s transitioning between different forms of cricket or switching between languages like Punjabi and English. As a left-arm seamer for Punjab Kings (PBKS), he frequently shifts between languages during training sessions and discussions with captain Shikhar Dhawan and coach Trevor Bayliss before IPL matches. Both Dhawan and Bayliss have confidence in Singh’s abilities, considering him a key player for PBKS due to his skill and precision with the new ball, as well as his ability to deliver swinging yorkers in the final overs.
Having started in the IPL with PBKS in 2019, the 25-year-old Singh, a former Under-19 World Cup champion, has progressed significantly in the T20 format. After a modest debut season, he showcased his talent by taking 17 wickets in 14 matches the following season. This IPL success also paved the way for his T20I and ODI debuts, highlighting the depth of his skills.
Singh’s journey towards professional cricket began in 2018 after returning from the India U-19 World Cup. Working on developing his variations and maintaining a tight line and length, his coach Jaswant Rai, a former Ranji cricketer, emphasized the importance of these aspects in enhancing Singh’s performance. The 2021 IPL season was particularly impressive for Singh, as he claimed 18 wickets in 12 games.
Despite PBKS not making it to the playoffs for nearly ten years, this season shows promise with a solid bowling lineup led by Kagiso Rabada, complemented by Singh, Sam Curran, and Harshal Patel. Rai praised Singh’s strategic approach, particularly in bowling slow yorkers during the death overs and recovering swiftly after conceding boundaries in T20 cricket.
