Overview

• Irfan Pathan told RevSportz that Khaleel Ahmed “ticks all the boxes” for a left-arm pacer, citing 135–140 kph pace, swing both ways, and a reliable bouncer.
• He reaffirmed Arshdeep Singh as India’s No. 1 in white-ball cricket, referencing his leading role in the 2024 T20 World Cup and current T20I wicket tally.
• Pathan highlighted Khaleel’s improved slow bouncer, better seam position, and enhanced fitness, projecting a peak over the next four to five years.
• Khaleel claimed 15 wickets in 14 IPL 2025 matches for Chennai Super Kings, operating prominently in the powerplay.
• Selection context: Khaleel was left out of India’s 15 for the T20I Asia Cup starting September 9, Arshdeep is in the squad and sits on 99 T20I wickets.