Ex-India all-rounder Irfan Pathan showered accolades on India’s top T20I wicket-taker Arshdeep Singh, appreciating his transition into a top white-ball bowler. But Pathan also picked the next best left-arm fast bowler – Khaleel Ahmed, who impressed everybody during his stint with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the previous IPL season.
Arshdeep – India’s White-Ball Spearhead
Arshdeep has been central to India’s T20 team for the last two years. He played a crucial role in the 2024 T20 World Cup victory, being joint-second highest wicket-taker of the tournament with 17 wickets. He now stands at 99 wickets from 63 T20Is, just one away from becoming the first Indian bowler to achieve the 100-wicket mark in the format.
Khaleel Ahmed – The Next in Line
Talking to Boria Majumdar on Revsportz, Pathan pointed out the qualities needed in a left-arm pacer – the ability to regularly clock 135-140 kmph, swing the ball both ways, and deliver bouncers well and stated that Khaleel ticks all the boxes.
Arshdeep is clearly India’s No. 1 white-ball bowler. But if we consider someone who could match his skillset, Khaleel is the complete package. He has upgraded his pace, seam position, slow bouncers, and fitness, and he is a very strong candidate,” Pathan opined.
Khaleel was last seen playing for India in a T20I against Sri Lanka at Pallekelle, where conditions were extremely spin-friendly and he was wicketless. Since then, he has played much more to his game and has become CSK’s main wicket-taker, taking 15 wickets in 14 matches in the previous IPL season, especially doing well in powerplay overs.
Future Potential and Pathan’s Backing
Pathan feels Khaleel, 27, is now at his best and has the ability to perform under pressure situations.
“He is in top condition to do the business over the next four to five years. It’s all about grabbing opportunities and doing things when it really counts. His last IPL season revealed what he was capable of, and playing for CSK has served to develop him further,” Pathan said.
Asia Cup Snub
In spite of Pathan’s best support, Khaleel was not picked by India for Asia Cup 2025, which is scheduled to start on September 9. India will play a day later against the UAE.
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