“Can Hardik Pandya bowl six yorkers?” - Irfan Pathan wants star player to be a part of playing XI vs Pakistan

Former Indian all-rounder and commentator Irfan Pathan has stated that he would love to see Arshdeep Singh bowl in tandem with Jasprit Bumrah, sharing the new ball in the match against Pakistan on Sunday, September 21, in Dubai.

Speaking exclusively on Sony Sports Network, Irfan has asserted that India should go ahead with the second pacer instead of heavily relying on all-rounders like Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube, who might not give good enough returns in crunch situations.

"I will stick to my words, what I said before the start of the Asia Cup. I would want to see Arshdeep play with (Jasprit) Bumrah because a situation could come where you might need a second fast bowler. When the ball gets wet and you are under pressure, is Hardik's (Pandya) strength bowling six yorkers, or can Shivam Dube bowl those yorkers consistently?" he said on Sony Sports Network.

Moreover, Irfan Pathan also felt that it would be tough for the Indian team management to think about changing the team that’s constantly winning the games. Also, he shared his opinion on whether India should play a batter short to bring in Arshdeep to the XI.

“There will be a question there. That's why, can you think about Arshdeep? However, it's difficult to change a team that's been playing and winning. You wouldn't want to play a batter less as well. It's a tough decision. I would have done differently, but the team is thinking differently," he added.

While India dominated the group stage with three consecutive victories against the UAE, Pakistan, and Oman, they topped the points table in Group A with six points. Meanwhile, Pakistan could secure the second rank with two wins against the UAE and Oman and a defeat to India.

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