Arshdeep Singh: Last ODI in Lucknow took a toll on our bodies ahead of 3rd ODI
Synopsis
Arshdeep Singh has pulled no punches about the physical cost of India's second ODI in Lucknow — and the team's response was a tailored, player-by-player training plan ahead of the Chepauk decider. With Arshdeep himself sitting out and eyeing T20I duties in Ireland and England, the story behind the story is how India's sports science setup is quietly becoming a match-winner in its own right.
Key Takeaways
Arshdeep Singh confirmed the 2nd ODI in Lucknow took a physical toll on India's players due to extreme heat and humidity.
India adopted an individualised training approach ahead of the 3rd ODI at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai on 20 June .
Arshdeep credited the sports science team, physios, and trainers for keeping the squad match-ready.
The team's hydration protocol begins a day before the match , not on game day itself.
Arshdeep is not playing in the 3rd ODI and will next travel with India for T20I tours of Ireland and England .
India left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh acknowledged that the second ODI against Afghanistan in sweltering conditions in Lucknow had physically drained the squad, revealing that the team adopted an individualised training approach ahead of the third and final match of the series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on 20 June.
Managing Bodies in the Heat
'The last game, it took a toll on our bodies as well. It was very hot and humid and here as well we knew at practice it's going to be hot. So, we managed our bodies well. Some came, some didn't come, some recovered, some trained. So, everyone trained respective to their demands,' Arshdeep told broadcasters ahead of the match.
He was quick to clarify that the team's preparation was not disrupted, noting that processes were already in place well before the series began. The staggered training approach was a deliberate, science-backed decision rather than a sign of concern.
Sports Science Team Gets Credit
Arshdeep reserved particular praise for the backroom staff, crediting the sports science unit for keeping players match-ready despite the punishing conditions. 'A lot of credit goes to the sports science team and the way the measures, the physios, the trainers help us get ready for the game,' he said.
He also outlined the hydration strategy the team follows: 'We try to hydrate ourselves before the game. If you start hydrating during the game, you're already late. So, you have to start it a day prior to the game and recover well, get your massages done, get your priming sessions done and then you're ready for the game.'
Arshdeep Sits Out 3rd ODI, Eyes T20I Assignments
Arshdeep Singh is not part of the playing eleven for the third ODI and will next feature in India's T20I tours of Ireland and England. With those assignments in view, he said his focus is sharpening his death-bowling skills and maintaining his current rhythm.
'I'm enjoying my bowling right now and just trying to have fun at the field. The ball is coming out nicely out of the hand. Just trying to focus more on my processes as well because the coming series are of T20 format. So, just want to do well at death as well and take a lot of wickets,' he said.
What to Watch in the Decider
The third ODI at Chepauk is a series decider, with both sides having traded wins. The humid conditions in Chennai are expected to remain a factor, making squad management and player fitness as crucial as on-field strategy. India's pace attack — even without Arshdeep — will be under the spotlight as the team looks to seal the series.
Point of View
Not just the coach or captain, reflects a genuine cultural shift in how India manages its fast-bowling resources. With Jasprit Bumrah's workload already carefully rationed, the broader question is whether India's scheduling — two ODIs in sweltering conditions before a series decider — is being designed with player welfare in mind or simply around broadcast windows. Arshdeep's candour is welcome; the system that forces that candour deserves equal scrutiny.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Arshdeep Singh say the last ODI took a toll on India's players?
Arshdeep said the second ODI against Afghanistan in Lucknow was played in extremely hot and humid conditions, leaving players physically drained. As a result, India adopted a flexible, individualised training plan ahead of the series decider in Chennai.
Is Arshdeep Singh playing in the 3rd ODI against Afghanistan?
No, Arshdeep Singh is not part of the playing eleven for the third ODI at MA Chidambaram Stadium. He is set to next feature in India's T20I tours of Ireland and England.
How does India manage player fitness in extreme heat?
According to Arshdeep, the team begins hydrating a day before the match rather than during it, and players undergo massages and priming sessions. He credited the sports science team, physios, and trainers for keeping the squad ready.
Where is the 3rd ODI between India and Afghanistan being played?
The third and final ODI of the series is being played at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on 20 June. The match is a series decider.
What is Arshdeep Singh's next assignment after the Afghanistan ODI series?
Arshdeep Singh will travel with India for T20I tours of Ireland and England. He said he is focused on his death-bowling and is enjoying his current rhythm ahead of those assignments.
