NEW DELHI: Arshdeep Singh continues to warm the bench, as the left-arm pacer was not included in India's first T20I against Australia in Canberra - a move that didn't sit well with fans and former cricketers alike. Despite being India's highest wicket-taker in T20Is, Arshdeep's persistent exclusion has remained a topic of discussion.

India opted for Jasprit Bumrah and Harshit Rana as their two main pacers, while banking on a three-pronged spin attack comprising Axar Patel, Varun Chakravarthy, and Kuldeep Yadav.

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan was left shocked to see Arshdeep missing from the playing XI, as his brief post on X reflected his disbelief. "Arshdeep Singh..." Pathan wrote on X.

Arshdeep's omission adds to a growing pattern of frustration for the 25-year-old, who has frequently found himself sidelined despite delivering consistent performances. Even during the Asia Cup, he was given opportunities only in inconsequential matches when senior bowlers were rested.

Netizens also criticised head coach Gautam Gambhir for leaving Arshdeep out of the playing XI, pointing out that Harshit Rana continues to be preferred ahead of the seasoned left-arm pacer.

Rain plays spoilsport

Persistent rain played spoilsport as the first T20 International against Australia was abandoned after continuous showers.

Before the interruption, India skipper Suryakumar Yadav (39* off 24) showcased glimpses of his best form with a series of exquisite strokes, while his deputy Shubman Gill (37* off 20) also looked fluent at the crease.

The pair put on a brisk 62-run stand off just 35 balls for the second wicket, but their promising partnership was cut short by the weather.