Arshdeep Singh unbothered by social media criticism: Punjab Kings management
Andrew Leipus said Arshdeep Singh has stayed calm despite the online reaction to his Tilak Varma remarks. The Punjab Kings camp is treating the noise as peripheral ahead of a crucial match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Punjab Kings pacer Arshdeep Singh may have found himself at the centre of social media chatter following his remarks on Tilak Varma in a viral video, but the outside noise has had little effect on him, according to Punjab Kings Head of Sports Science Andrew Leipus.
Ahead of the crucial clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Leipus said the left-arm seamer has remained calm, consistent and mentally unfazed despite the online criticism.
“In terms of his behaviour, Arsh’s (Arshdeep) pretty much a flat line,” Leipus told reporters ahead of Punjab Kings’ all-important clash against RCB in Dharamshala. “He’s not up or down. He gives his best out there. He’s been feeling a lot better physically over the last couple of weeks. So overall, he’s been pretty consistent with his behaviour and attitude.”
The Indian fast bowler, widely regarded as one of the more popular young cricketers among fans because of his candid vlogs and dressing-room interactions, has endured a turbulent few weeks off the field. A viral video featuring comments directed at Tilak Varma drew criticism online and placed Arshdeep under intense social media scrutiny.
The controversy escalated further after screenshots of his alleged response to a fan began circulating widely online. However, despite the criticism, Arshdeep has largely stayed away from publicly addressing the matter.
A LEADER IN DRESSING ROOM?
Yet, according to Leipus, the bowler’s personality and presence inside the dressing room remain unchanged.
“He’s a very loud person in the dressing room, that hasn’t changed. He’s not up and down, and he’s very calm,” Leipus added.
In fact, Leipus revealed that Arshdeep has continued to play a leadership role within the squad.
“He’s still incredibly confident and positive, leading from the front on and off the field. He’s a very sociable guy, he doesn’t stand apart from anyone else. He’s in the mix, he’s at breakfast with everyone,” Leipus said. “So from that perspective, they keep a lid on all the anxieties that might develop when the pressure’s on, which is fantastic. We’ve got quite a young team and they’re hopefully picking up on those vibes and staying calm. That calmness at the top and the lack of fluctuation in behaviour is very positive.”
Punjab Kings will hope Arshdeep’s form with the ball continues even as the team struggles collectively and eventually help them seal the playoff spot. The left-arm pacer is currently the franchise’s leading wicket-taker this season with 13 wickets at an average of 34.30.
However, Punjab Kings have endured a dramatic dip in form, suffering five consecutive defeats after a dream start to the campaign. The franchise still has two matches remaining, including the clash against RCB on May 17, as they fight to secure a playoff berth.
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