ENG vs IND 2025: Arshdeep should be part of the team from the first Test, Monty Panesar expressed surprise

Monty Panesar, the former England spinner, has shared his thoughts on India's bowling strategy during the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025, particularly focusing on the selection decisions surrounding Arshdeep Singh and Jasprit Bumrah. According to Panesar, the Indian team missed a valuable opportunity by not playing Arshdeep Singh from the very first Test. So far, three of the five Test matches in the series have been played, with England leading 2-1 after a strong win at Lord’s in the third Test. As the series moves toward the crucial fourth Test in Manchester, Panesar believes India must make strategic changes, especially in their bowling department, to stay in contention.

Arshdeep Singh, a left-arm fast bowler, was selected in India’s squad for the England tour but has yet to feature in any of the three matches played so far. Panesar expressed surprise and disappointment over Arshdeep’s absence, considering his experience and skill set, which he feels are perfectly suited for English conditions. Arshdeep has previously played county cricket in England and is familiar with the challenges presented by the swinging and seaming conditions there. His ability to bowl from a different angle, being a left-armer, adds variety to India’s pace attack and could have been particularly effective against England’s right-handed-heavy batting lineup.

Panesar was quoted by *India Today* saying, “Arshdeep Singh should play. I am surprised that he could not play the first Test match. He can bowl with a good angle and the left-arm fast bowler will prove to be a good option for the Indian team. His performance should be very good in these conditions of England.” His comments highlight the importance of using resources wisely, especially when they provide variety and have prior success in similar playing conditions.

Beyond Arshdeep, Panesar also emphasized the significance of playing Jasprit Bumrah in the upcoming fourth Test, which is scheduled to be held at Old Trafford in Manchester. Ahead of the series, Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir had stated that Bumrah, due to workload management, would play only three of the five matches. Bumrah has already featured in two out of the first three Tests, but Panesar insists that the fourth Test is too crucial to rest India’s premier fast bowler.

Panesar argued that Old Trafford is known for its extra pace and bounce, making it a pitch that perfectly suits Bumrah’s bowling style. “Jasprit Bumrah should play the next match. It is an important match for India. They have to field their best attack. Bumrah has to play the next Test. It is the fastest and bounciest pitch in England, so he has to play,” Panesar said.

His point is that with the series on the line, India cannot afford to hold back their best weapons. The fourth Test could determine whether India stays alive in the series or concedes a decisive lead to England. Bumrah’s ability to exploit bounce and movement could be a game-changer, especially on a surface that aids fast bowling.

In conclusion, Panesar's analysis reflects a deep understanding of not just the pitch conditions and player capabilities, but also the psychological and tactical demands of high-stakes Test cricket. His advocacy for including Arshdeep Singh and continuing with Bumrah in Manchester underlines the importance of adaptability and aggressive planning. For India to bounce back in the series, making bold, informed decisions—like trusting Arshdeep’s left-arm swing and using Bumrah’s pace threat—could prove crucial.