Michael Vaughan backs Arshdeep Singh to finish career as India’s highest wicket-taker in T20Is

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has tipped Arshdeep Singh to finish his career as India’s highest wicket-taker in T20Is. On Wednesday, Singh became India’s leading wicket-taker in the shortest format of the game, leapfrogging leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal’s tally of 96 wickets.

The left-arm seamer returned with impressive figures of 2-17 in his quota of four overs against England in the opening T20I at Eden Gardens, Kolkata and played a key role in skittling out the opposition at 132 and eventually India’s seven-wicket win.

The fast bowler got movement with the new ball and accounted for England openers – Phil Salt and Ben Duckett.

Singh has scalped 97 wickets in 61 T20Is at an average of 17.91 and an economy rate of 8.25.

Michael Vaughan said on Cricbuzz, “He’s a class act – has that ability to move the ball both ways. It looks like he likes the pressure of leading the attack and being that trendsetter. He’s nearing a hundred [wickets], but he’s going to end up with so much more.”

“He’ll take some catching. I think he’ll get plenty. [If] he’s going to play that much T20 cricket over the next few years., he’ll get a number on the board by the time he hangs his boots that might be quite difficult to catch,” the 50-year-old went on to add.

On the other hand, former Indian fast bowler Zaheer Khan said Arshdeep Singh has done a great job in grabbing his chance with both hands.

“The numbers are reflective of the fact that he’s so consistent with taking wickets. Sixty one games, 97 wickets is pretty much a wicket and a half per game which, in this format, is massive. We’ve seen his impact is getting better as he is playing more and more with the new ball.

“In the Indian system, the T20I format has been the preferred format where the senior bowlers are resting and the one guy who has been playing consistently has been Arshdeep. He’s really grabbed the opportunity with both hands. Highest wicket-taker in the format will surely give him confidence going forward,” Zaheer went on to add.

The second T20I between India and England will be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai on Saturday.