Former India batsman S Badrinath threw down the gauntlet to Kings of Punjab pacer Arshdeep Singh ahead of their crucial IPL clash against Mumbai Indians, calling it the perfect moment for the left-armer who is fast re-discovering his best form.
With the play-off race tightening, Badrinath highlighted Arshdeep’s importance to Punjab’s campaign, insisting the pacer’s rhythm could be decisive in an MI side he feels has lost steam.
Speaking to Star Sports, Badrinath was unequivocal in his stance on the increasingly frequent debate about player workload and fatigue, arguing that elite-level professionals must be ready to perform at their best whenever they step on the field.
“His form is very important Chances of PBKS. I don’t believe in the whole concept of fatigue. If you are tired, don’t play. As a professional, you have to give 100% when you show up on the pitch. That is the nature of sport at the highest level,” said Badrinath.
“Rest if you are tired. That’s for everyone who plays cricket, not just Arshdeep.”
Badrinath’s comments come at an important time for Arshdeep, who has had a mixed season. The Indian pacer showed flashes of his quality but struggled for consistency, especially when the conditions did not offer movement with the new ball.
The former batsman pointed to Arshdeep’s style as a pace-dependent bowler, noting that his effectiveness skyrockets when he is able to generate swing and control both angles.
“Arshdeep has been hot and cold this season. He is more of a rhythm bowler with the ability to move the ball both ways. When the ball is moving, Arshdeep is a different bowler,” Badrinath added.
“But this is a unique opportunity for Arshdeep and. PBKS to the downtrend side of MI. Moreover, Arshdeep fought well against them.’
For the Punjab Kings, the timing could hardly be more critical. With each match taking on increased importance in the play-off battle, Arshdeep could find a rhythm against a tough opponent just the way PBKS needs.
Mumbai, meanwhile, remain a dangerous side despite recent inconsistencies, which makes Badrinath’s framing of the competition as a personal opportunity for Arshdeep all the more compelling. The battle between pace spearhead PBKS and MI’s batting unit could sway the outcome of the match with major postseason implications.
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Issued by:
Amar Panicker
Published on:
14 May 2026 15:29 IST
