Veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has vehemently criticized the team management's decision to exclude left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh from the playing eleven for the first two One-Day Internationals against New Zealand. Ashwin voiced his strong disapproval on social media and his YouTube channel, questioning the rationale behind benching a bowler who has consistently performed well for the team. He specifically highlighted Arshdeep's impressive showing in the preceding ODI series against South Africa, where he emerged as India's most economical bowler, securing five wickets in three matches with an economy rate of 5.50. Furthermore, Arshdeep demonstrated strong form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, taking seven wickets in two innings. Ashwin emphasized the detrimental effect of a 'lack of continuity' on a bowler's rhythm and confidence, suggesting that resting a player 'shouldn't be after he gets in the squad'. He contrasted Arshdeep's situation with established players like Jasprit Bumrah, who are genuinely rested for workload management, arguing that for Arshdeep, the inconsistency impacts performance. The former India spinner also drew a personal parallel, stating, 'I have been in this position, so I know how it is. This is why I am fighting for Arshdeep Singh'. He asserted that Arshdeep, who is also India's leading wicket-taker in T20Is, deserves a consistent spot in the playing XI given his proven capabilities. The decision to omit Arshdeep, despite his recent white-ball success, sparked significant debate among cricket fans and experts, with many expressing frustration and accusing the team management of 'blatant favouritism'. Fans questioned the selection of other pacers like Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana over Arshdeep, especially given his better economy rate and consistency. While India's captain Shubman Gill explained the selection as part of a rotation policy aimed at trying different combinations for future tournaments, this explanation did not fully quell the discontent. The Hindustan Times article accurately captures Ashwin's passionate plea and the broader discourse surrounding Arshdeep's perceived unfair treatment in team selection.