NEW DELHI: Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes Mumbai Indians have emerged with a stronger bowling combination after acquiring Arshdeep Singh from Punjab Kings in a blockbuster IPL trade, pointing out how the left-arm pacer could allow Jasprit Bumrah to be used more effectively while also giving the five-time champions greater flexibility with their overseas slots.After days of speculation, MI and PBKS completed the high-profile exchange, with Hardik Pandya moving to Punjab and Arshdeep heading to Mumbai. Hardik will join PBKS for Rs 18 crore, an increase from his existing fee of Rs 16.35 crore, while Arshdeep moves to MI at his existing fee of Rs 18 crore.Reacting to the deal, Pathan highlighted the potential impact of Arshdeep’s arrival on Mumbai’s team combination.“The trade of Arshdeep Singh makes Mumbai Indians a much stronger side. It allows them to use Jasprit Bumrah even more effectively and also has a positive impact on their overseas slots,” Irfan Pathan posted on X.
Arshdeep gives MI more powerplay and death-over options
Pathan’s assessment is based on the bowling resources Arshdeep brings to an already formidable pace attack. MI now have Bumrah, Deepak Chahar, Trent Boult and Arshdeep as frontline options who can operate with the new ball.Arshdeep’s ability to strike early and deliver at the death could also take some of the pressure off Bumrah, allowing MI to deploy their premier fast bowler more strategically across the innings.The franchise also have another left-arm pace option in Ashwani Kumar, who has impressed in his 10 appearances for MI, claiming 17 wickets, including two four-wicket hauls.Arshdeep’s arrival also gives Mumbai the option of fielding an all-Indian pace attack comprising Bumrah, Arshdeep, Chahar and Ashwani. Such a combination could allow the franchise to leave Boult out and accommodate an additional overseas player.MI have several overseas all-rounders who can contribute in multiple departments, including Mitchell Santner, Will Jacks, Sherfane Rutherford and Corbin Bosch. Indian all-round options such as Naman Dhir, Shardul Thakur and young Raj Angad Bawa could further strengthen the balance.