Dodda Ganesh slams Arshdeep Singh’s shot selection in tense India, Sri Lanka tie

Former Indian pacer Dodda Ganesh has raised concerns over Arshdeep Singh's shot selection in the thrilling first ODI between India and Sri Lanka, which ended in a dramatic tie on August 2 in Colombo.

India was chasing a target of 231 at the R Premadasa Stadium and appeared on track for victory. With just one run needed from 15 balls and two wickets in hand, Shivam Dube was well-set at the crease. However, Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka dismissed Dube, who was out LBW to a delivery that came back in. This set the stage for Arshdeep Singh, India’s No. 11 batter, to come in.

Singh, looking to make an impact, attempted an ambitious slog sweep off his first ball. The shot missed, and he was trapped LBW. Despite reviewing the decision, the original call stood.

Ganesh criticized Singh’s approach, suggesting that more game awareness was needed in such a crucial situation. He also implied that India's new head coach Gautam Gambhir would be disappointed with Singh’s shot selection. 

"You can’t expect run from the tail enders but a bit of game awareness is paramount for any cricketer. That shot from Arshdeep isn’t going to impress the coach Gambhir," Ganesh wrote on his official 'X' handle.

Ganesh also praised the Sri Lankan bowlers for their spirited performance, noting that their fightback in the match would boost their morale. 

"Great application shown by Sri Lankan bowlers. This is going to be a great moral booster for the underdogs," Ganesh further wrote.

The second ODI of the series will take place at the same venue on Sunday, August 4, as both teams look to gain an edge in the three-match series.