29-AUG-2025, 02: 25 PM
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan, known for his sharp cricketing insights, has thrown the spotlight on left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed, calling him a bowler who “ticks all the boxes” in T20 internationals. Pathan’s praise comes at a crucial time when India is exploring bowling options beyond Arshdeep Singh in the shortest format of the game. By highlighting the strengths of Khaleel Ahmed, Pathan has reignited discussions about India’s bowling depth, especially in light of the upcoming ICC tournaments.
The recognition from a player of Irfan Pathan’s stature adds weight to Khaleel Ahmed’s chances of making a consistent mark for Team India in T20Is. With his pace, swing, and variety, Khaleel is now being closely watched as a potential key figure in India’s bowling arsenal.
Irfan Pathan’s Endorsement of Khaleel Ahmed
Khaleel Ahmed : The Legacy of a Left-Arm Bowler
India has often benefited from quality left-arm seamers, with the likes of Zaheer Khan and Irfan Pathan himself setting benchmarks. By placing Khaleel Ahmed in the spotlight, Pathan signaled that India’s long search for another reliable left-armer could be over.
Khaleel Ahmed : “Ticks All Boxes” Comment
Speaking about India’s T20I prospects, Pathan stated that Khaleel Ahmed possesses the necessary attributes: swing with the new ball, control in the middle overs, and variations for the death overs. This all-round ability makes him a strong contender to complement or even follow in the footsteps of Arshdeep Singh.
Khaleel Ahmed : Journey in Indian Cricket
Khaleel Ahmed : Early Career and Rise
Hailing from Tonk in Rajasthan, Khaleel Ahmed made headlines during his Under-19 days, catching the attention of selectors with his pace and aggression. He was soon drafted into India’s limited-overs setup, making his debut in 2018. Though he faced ups and downs, his raw potential remained undeniable.
Khaleel Ahmed : Stint in Domestic and IPL Cricket
Over the years, Khaleel Ahmed sharpened his skills in domestic cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL). Playing under different franchises, he impressed with his ability to swing the ball early and deliver crucial breakthroughs. His performances in IPL 2023 and 2024 were particularly noted for improved consistency.
Why Khaleel Ahmed Stands Out in T20Is
Khaleel Ahmed : Ability with the New Ball
Like Arshdeep Singh, Khaleel Ahmed can swing the ball both ways with the new ball. This gives India a strategic edge in T20Is where early wickets often determine the outcome of matches.
Variations at the Death
Modern T20 cricket demands bowlers who can adapt to pressure situations. Khaleel has developed effective slower balls, yorkers, and wide-angle deliveries that make him a reliable option in the slog overs.
Complementing Arshdeep Singh
With Arshdeep already cementing his place as India’s go-to left-arm pacer, Pathan’s suggestion to back Khaleel Ahmed ensures India has not one, but two strong left-arm seamers — a luxury few international sides enjoy.
Irfan Pathan’s Cricketing Eye
Experience as a Mentor
Irfan Pathan has played the role of mentor and commentator after retirement, often identifying young talents who later flourish on the big stage. His endorsement of Khaleel is significant, as it comes from a former left-arm pacer who understands the nuances of seam bowling.
Track Record of Predictions
Pathan previously supported players like Deepak Hooda and Umran Malik before they gained prominence. His faith in Khaleel could be another accurate prediction.
Team India’s Bowling Dynamics
The Need for Left-Arm Variety
India’s bowling attack has often been dominated by right-arm pacers. The inclusion of left-armers like Khaleel Ahmed provides variety, making it difficult for opposition batsmen to settle. The angle created by left-arm bowlers also challenges right-handed batsmen, particularly in powerplays.
Building a T20I Core
With the T20 World Cup approaching, India is looking to build a solid bowling core. Players like Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, and potentially Khaleel could form a formidable pace trio.
Khaleel Ahmed’s Recent Performances
Domestic Tournaments
In the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy, Khaleel consistently picked wickets while maintaining an impressive economy rate. His ability to deliver under pressure has been a key talking point.
IPL Impact
In recent IPL seasons, Khaleel Ahmed showcased maturity in his bowling, taking responsibility in crunch matches. His ability to handle high-pressure situations impressed both fans and experts.
Fan and Expert Reactions
Social Media Buzz
Following Pathan’s comments, fans flooded social media praising Khaleel Ahmed’s skills and demanding his inclusion in India’s T20I squad. Hashtags like #KhaleelAhmed and #IrfanPathan trended briefly.
Experts Agree
Several cricket analysts echoed Pathan’s views, noting that Khaleel Ahmed offers something unique to India’s bowling mix. His age also works in his favour, giving India a long-term option.
Challenges Ahead for Khaleel Ahmed
Injury Concerns
Like many fast bowlers, Khaleel Ahmed has struggled with injuries in the past. Staying fit consistently will be key to cementing his place in the national squad.
Intense Competition
With young pacers like Mukesh Kumar, Prasidh Krishna, and Umran Malik in contention,
The Road Ahead
Building on Pathan’s Support
Backed by Irfan Pathan’s strong endorsement, Khaleel now has both the confidence and visibility required to push for national selection. If he continues his form in domestic cricket and IPL, a return to India’s T20I setup seems imminent.
Role in India’s T20 World Cup Plans
Selectors could see Khaleel Ahmed as a backup or partner to Arshdeep Singh in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup. His inclusion would provide India with crucial depth in pace bowling.
Conclusion
The endorsement of Khaleel by former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has once again highlighted the left-arm pacer’s potential in T20 internationals. From his early breakthroughs to his refined skills in the IPL, Khaleel has shown steady growth as a bowler. Pathan’s statement that he “ticks all boxes” underscores the all-round qualities he brings to the game.
For India, nurturing talents like Khaleel is not just about adding depth but also ensuring diversity in the bowling attack. As the countdown to major T20 tournaments continues, Khaleel stands on the threshold of becoming a vital piece in India’s bowling puzzle. If he continues to impress, the future may well belong to him.
Source : ANI
