The Punjab Kings (PBKS) have clarified that pacer bowler Arshdeep Singh is fully fit and trained with the rest of the squad. This comes after their head of sports science, Andrew Leipus, indicated that the left-arm seamer had some physical restrictions during their game against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). 

Following their loss to the defending champions, Leipus claimed that Arshdeep is facing some issues in his body, which is one of the reasons why he has had an inconsistent season in this season’s Indian Premier League (IPL).

PBKS, however, put out a statement clearing doubt over their star player’s fitness. Last year’s finalists stated that Arshdeep has no injury or fitness concerns, and they are extremely confident that the pacer will play a crucial role for them in the latter stages of the tournament. 

“Contrary to reports, we would like to confirm that our leading fast bowler and highest wicket-taker, Arshdeep Singh, is fully fit and has been actively training with the squad. The team management is absolutely pleased with his progress, and he is raring to go as we head into a crucial contest of the tournament. His energy, rhythm, and commitment in the nets have been extremely encouraging, and we are confident that he will continue to play a key role for Punjab Kings moving forward as well,” the Punjab Kings statement read as follows. 

Arshdeep has been at the centre of off-field controversies but has been PBKS’ lead bowler this season. The left-armer has 14 wickets to his name from 13 matches, at an economy rate of 9.78, which is slightly on the higher side based on his lofty standards. 

PBKS, meanwhile, are in a torrid form as the IPL nears its end. They are currently on a six-match losing run, which has seriously hampered their chances of qualifying for the playoffs. However, they are still fourth in the standings, with 13 points from as many matches.