Arshdeep Singh 'the allrounder'? Punjab Kings pacer jokes he’s a 'pinch hitter' ahead of IPL 2026 auction

Devansh Poddar

Arshdeep Singh 'the allrounder'? Punjab Kings pacer jokes he’s a 'pinch hitter' ahead of IPL 2026 auction image

(getty)

India and Punjab Kings star pacer Arshdeep Singh has once again left the fans in splits, continuing his humorous persona on social media. This time, he called himself a pinch-hitter, jokingly remarking that he can also hit big sixes when required. 

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With his ability to bowl with the new ball and at the death overs, Arshdeep has emerged as one of India's key bowlers for India in the shortest format. While his bowling is always in the limelight, his batting is rarely talked about.

What did Arshdeep Singh say about allrounders before IPL 2026 auction?

In a recent conversation with Gaurav Kapoor for Oaktree Sports, the star pacer was seen in a light-hearted and joyous mood. When asked about whether he considers himself an all-rounder, Arshdeep hilariously replied, calling himself a pinch-hitter. 

"I am a pinch-hitter. I have smacked sixes, hope my captains are listening...and I hope this clip reaches my owners," Arshdeep said with a smile. 

Arshdeep has been one of India's key performers in the shortest format. The star pacer played a crucial role in taking India to the World Cup triumph in 2024. 

While his comments drew laughs, they also highlighted Arshdeep's growing confidence in his ability to contribute as a multi-dimensional player. Team India, under Gautam Gambhir, is fond of players who can contribute across departments.

More recently, his teammate from Punjab, Abhishek Sharma, compared him to Chris Gayle for remaining unbeaten on seven runs during India A's two-wicket win over Australia A. 

"Maza aa gaya bhai. Arsh tune jo batting ki hai, mujhe Chris Gayle ki yaad aa gayi. [It was fun today. Arsh the way you batted, it reminded me of Chris Gayle.]," Sharma said. To which Arshdeep replied: "You heard it first here."

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What's next for Arshdeep Singh?

Arshdeep recently became the first Indian bowler to complete 100 T20I wickets in the history of the game. While he is not always in the limelight on the field due to limited opportunities, the pacer has quietly made a name for himself since his debut for the Men in Blue. 

His next challenge will be the tour to Australia, where Team India will play in a five-match T20I series. The series will provide the pacer with crucial preparations ahead of the home T20 World Cup next year.

The pacer would also be keen on making the Indian squads in the other formats. He was part of the Indian side that toured England for five Tests but failed to make the eleven.

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Devansh Poddar

Devansh Poddar is a content producer for The Sporting News' India edition.