Arshdeep Singh has been one of the shining stars of Indian cricket over the past 12-18 months after he helped India to the T20 World Cup and was a part of the ICC Champions Trophy-winning squad.
He had recently also surpassed Yuzvendra Chahal to become India's highest wicket-taker in T20Is and is on the brink of 100 wickets.
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However, after all the white-ball accolades to his name, another big day of his career came on May 24 as he got his maiden Test call-up for the team that will tour England in the upcoming summer.
A Test call-up is always special, especially as India heads into a new era. With Jasprit Bumrah's workload to be managed, this would be a big opportunity for the left-arm bowler to stamp his authority as a three-format bowler.
Check out what the chief selector, Ajit Agarkar, had to say about calling up the Punjab bowler.
What did Ajit Agarkar say about picking Arshdeep Singh in Tests?
While speaking to the press after announcing the squad, Agarkar emphasized on the importance of having a variety of pacers.
The 26-year-old's left arm bowling would add an extra dimension to a young attack led by Bumrah — who is likely to miss a Test or two.
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"He's a quality bowler and has had a taste of County as well. He plays domestic when he can. A tall guy, can bowl with the new ball, has body of work in red-ball cricket and in recent form in the last couple of years. Bumrah unlikely to play all five Tests, we needed a bit of variety," said Agarkar.
Arshdeep had notably represented Kent in Division One of the County Championship in 2023 and picked 13 wickets in 5 matches with the best figures of 3/58.
How will India manage Bumrah's workload?
As per the chief selector, the ace pacer of India will not be available for all five matches of the series.
Looking at the schedule, India plays their first match from June 20 to 24 in Leeds, where Bumrah will be available. He will also have a substantial rest for the Birmingham Test that will be played from July 2 to 6.
However, his availability for the Lord's Test from July 10-14 is likely to be assessed — considering only 3 days between the 2nd and 3rd Test.
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The right-arm quick will return to the 4th Test at Manchester from July 23 to 27 and once again, with only 3 days between the 4th and 5th Test, his availability for the Oval Test from July 31 to August 4 will be determined by the medical staff.