Arshdeep Singh's wayward over in the second T20I between India and South Africa has sparked criticism and concern, drawing the ire of Sunil Gavaskar and seemingly unsettling captain Hardik Pandya and senior batsman Suryakumar Yadav. The incident occurred during the 11th over of South Africa's innings in Mullanpur on Thursday, December 11, 2025, when Arshdeep sprayed seven wides, significantly contributing to the Proteas' score.

The over not only inflated the run rate but also appeared to put immense pressure on the rest of the team. Gavaskar, known for his sharp analysis, didn't hold back in his criticism of Arshdeep's performance. While Gavaskar's specific comments weren't detailed, his general disapproval of undisciplined bowling is well known, and the seven wides in a single over would undoubtedly have caught his attention.

Adding to the tension, Hardik Pandya, the Indian captain, was visibly frustrated by the extra runs conceded. As a leader, Pandya expects a certain level of control and precision from his bowlers, especially in crucial T20I matches. The repeated wides not only released pressure on the South African batsmen but also disrupted India's strategic plans.

Suryakumar Yadav, a key figure in the Indian batting lineup, also seemed uneasy following the over. While not directly involved in the bowling performance, Yadav understands the importance of keeping the opposition's score in check. The added runs could potentially increase the pressure on the Indian batsmen when they begin their chase.

Despite the costly over, Arshdeep has demonstrated his talent on numerous occasions. The left-arm medium-fast bowler made his international debut in July 2022 in a T20I against England. He was a part of the 2024 T20 World Cup-winning squad and the 2025 Champions Trophy. In September 2025, he became the first Indian bowler to take 100 wickets in T20Is. He has played in 68 T20Is and taken 105 wickets.

However, inconsistency has sometimes plagued his career. While he is known for his ability to bowl well in the death overs, he has also been criticized for leaking runs.

The match saw South Africa score 179/4 in 18 overs, with Quinton de Kock narrowly missing his century after scoring 90 runs. Varun Chakravarthy was the pick of the Indian bowlers, taking two wickets. India won the first T20I in Cuttack by 101 runs.