"Playing Half-Fit Bowlers is a Crime": Sidhu Slams Gambhir, Gill Over Ignoring Arshdeep for Final Test

In a sharp criticism during the fifth Test against England, Navjot Singh Sidhu has slammed India's head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shubman Gill for risking an injured Akash Deep while Arshdeep Singh remained unused on the bench.

Sidhu questions team management's decision

On Day 4, Akash Deep was seen in pain after being struck on the calf by a shot from England’s Harry Brook. Despite visible discomfort, he continued bowling, reportedly with the help of injections. Sidhu called out this move strongly, stating:

"You are feeding Akash Deep with injections in a Test match while Arshdeep Singh is sitting on the bench. Why didn't you play him? It is a crime to go with half-fit bowlers. This is a big crime."

Sidhu also pointed out that Shubman Gill was seen inquiring whether Akash had taken an injection, suggesting that the captain was aware of the bowler’s condition.

Arshdeep still waiting for Test debut

Arshdeep Singh, who has proven his talent in white-ball cricket, has not been given a single Test opportunity in the series. Many believe the left-arm pacer could have been a game-changer, especially when fitness concerns loomed over other bowlers.

Series on the line

England currently leads the five-match Test series 2-1. In the final match, India must win to draw the series. At the start of the fifth day, England needed just 35 runs with 4 wickets remaining, setting the stage for a tense finish.