Published By: Sanchari Das

Arzan Nagwaswalla: Why This VHT Star Pacer Deserves India's Cap

With standout performances across formats, this left-arm pacer makes a compelling case for a national call-up

Arzan Nagwaswalla has been turning heads with his remarkable performances in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy. The left-arm pacer has bagged 14 wickets in just seven matches, maintaining an average of 18 and an economy rate of 5. His consistency and ability to deliver in crucial moments make him a standout performer. India's current bowling lineup lacks variety, especially with left-arm pacers, and Arzan could be the answer to this gap.

Left-arm pacers: A rare commodity in India

India has always struggled to nurture left-arm pacers. Options beyond Arshdeep Singh have been scarce, and selectors seem hesitant to invest in talents like Arzan. India's 1-3 Test series loss to Australia highlighted the lack of variation in its bowling attack. The absence of a left-arm pacer to trouble right-handed batters was a glaring issue. Arzan's inclusion could bring much-needed diversity to India's bowling lineup.

Consistent domestic performances

Arzan has proven his mettle across formats in domestic cricket. In this Vijay Hazare Trophy alone, he has been exceptional. His overall domestic records are equally impressive:

Ranji Trophy 2023-24: 15 wickets in 5 matches at an average of 30.

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: 13 wickets in 6 matches at an average of 16.

His ability to adapt and succeed in different formats makes him a valuable asset. Moreover, his career-best performances include a 10-wicket haul against Punjab and a five-wicket haul at the iconic Wankhede Stadium.

A promising start in cricket

Arzan's journey began with a bang. In 2018, he made his List A debut during the Vijay Hazare Trophy, taking two crucial wickets against Rajasthan. His First-Class debut followed, and he announced himself with a five-wicket haul against Mumbai. During the 2019-20 Ranji Trophy, he was Gujarat's highest wicket-taker, with 41 scalps at an average of 18.36. His consistent performances have made him a domestic giant.

Standby for India's test squad

Arzan's hard work didn't go unnoticed. He was named a standby player in India's Test squad for the World Test Championship final and the England series in 2021. This made him the first Parsi cricketer in the Indian men's team since 1975. While he didn't get to play, the selection recognised his potential. The selectors can now reward his persistence by giving him a role in India's limited-overs setup.

Exceptional career records

Nagwaswalla's career statistics speak volumes about his capabilities:

List A: 77 wickets in 44 matches.

T20s: 61 wickets in 39 matches.

First-Class: 132 wickets in 37 matches at an average of 25.

Despite these impressive numbers, he has yet to be picked by an IPL franchise. However, his consistent performances in domestic cricket highlight his ability to rise above challenges, making him a strong contender for the national side.

The need for grooming young pacers

India cannot afford to rely solely on Arshdeep Singh as the only left-arm pacer. Arzan deserves an opportunity in the limited-overs series against England, starting January 22. With many senior bowlers expected to be absent, this is the perfect time to reward domestic performers. Arzan's experience and numbers suggest he can be groomed as a long-term option, especially in Tests, where even Arshdeep has struggled to break through.