Team India’s first T20 International against Australia at Manuka Oval on Wednesday ended in frustration both on and off the field — the match was washed out due to rain, but it was the omission of Arshdeep Singh that sparked a storm online. Despite being India’s leading wicket-taker in T20Is, the left-arm pacer was once again benched, with Harshit Rana getting the nod instead.

This marks the second consecutive series in which Arshdeep has been overlooked under head coach Gautam Gambhir. The 26-year-old, who played a key role in India’s T20 World Cup triumph earlier this year, was also sidelined in the final ODI of the recently concluded Australia series.

Fans question Gambhir’s selection calls

Minutes after the team lineup was announced, social media erupted with criticism. Fans and cricket pundits alike questioned Gambhir’s decision to persist with Harshit Rana at Arshdeep’s expense.

One user on X wrote, “Arshdeep Singh should be in the XI in every match; he has won us a World Cup.” Another posted, “Does Gautam Gambhir have a problem with Arshdeep Singh, the country’s leading wicket-taker who is still not getting consistent opportunities?”

The frustration grew as several users shared screenshots of Arshdeep’s recent exclusions, highlighting a pattern under Gambhir’s tenure. “Dropped from T20Is vs England, benched in Champions Trophy, and now again against Australia — Harshit Rana seems to be the preferred choice every time,” a post read.

While neither Gambhir nor the team management has commented on the selection calls, the fan sentiment was clear: many believe Arshdeep deserves a permanent spot in India’s T20 setup based on his consistency and experience.

Suryakumar and Gill shine before rain spoils play

On the field, India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav and opener Shubman Gill provided a glimpse of dominance before rain had the final say. Batting first, India reached 80 for 1 in 9.4 overs when showers forced the umpires to call off the game.

Suryakumar looked back to his explosive best, smashing 39 off 24 balls, including a trademark pick-up shot off Josh Hazlewood that sailed over square leg. Gill, unbeaten on 37 from 20 deliveries, complemented his skipper with elegant stroke play, including a towering slog-sweep off spinner Matt Kuhnemann.

Their 62-run partnership for the second wicket came at a brisk pace, lifting India’s run rate before the rain breaks disrupted the rhythm. The pitch at Manuka Oval offered bounce and carry, conditions that suited the Indian captain’s attacking instincts.

Arshdeep’s absence raises long-term concerns

With India’s fast-bowling lineup in transition, Arshdeep’s continued exclusion has raised concerns about the team’s balance. Experts have pointed out that his ability to swing the new ball and deliver under pressure in the death overs makes him a valuable T20 asset — particularly in overseas conditions.

However, Gambhir’s strategy appears to favour giving younger pacers like Harshit Rana more exposure ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup. While such experimentation is common in bilateral series, fans argue that sidelining proven performers could backfire.

What’s next for India

The series, scheduled for five matches, will resume with the second T20I in Sydney on Friday. All eyes will once again be on India’s team selection — and whether Arshdeep finally finds a place in the playing XI.

For now, the rain may have ended the game prematurely, but the debate around Arshdeep Singh’s omission continues to rage across social media, putting additional spotlight on Gambhir’s leadership style.