Here is a look into Mohammad Siraj, the Indian right-arm pacer’s recent performances and chances of making it into the Playing XI in the upcoming T20 World Cup.
- Advertisement -
When Jasprit Bumrah was first ruled out, many thought that his loss could be Mohammed Shami’s gain. In fact, the second in command hadn’t even played a T20 match since 2021 November. But as things stand now, it seems Siraj is becoming the hot favourite in line to replace the 28-year-old for the T20 World Cup who was ruled out due to a back stress fracture.
Unlike Shami, who hasn’t played much cricket, Siraj is constantly playing ODIs for India and has excelled in it. Even in the recently concluded ODI series against South Africa, he led the pace attack and came up with precise lines and lengths.
Siraj went on to pick the prized wickets of Janneman Malan and Reeza Hendricks. All of this has convinced Sunil Gavaskar to pick the Hyderabad bowler much before Shami as far as the T20 World Cup squad is concerned.
- Advertisement -
Earlier Siraj had replaced Bumrah in the South Africa series as like for like replacement.
There is still no confirmation on who would replace the pacer.
Siraj had a good series against South Africa as he went on to pick a three-for in the second ODI which was followed by two wickets in Delhi.
“Performing against a good team gives you a lot of confidence. I had to take responsibility. I try to figure out the right lengths at the start of the innings. As a fast bowler, you need that fire and passion inside you. Happy with my performance, and happy to get this Player of the Series award,” said Siraj in the post-match presentation ceremony.
India won the toss and opted to bowl first as India started their T20 World Cup 2022 campaign by defeating Western Australia by 13 runs. Arshdeep Singh was the standout bowler for the Men in Blue, having picked up three wickets.
India’s first match in the World Cup is against Babar Azam’s Pakistan on Sunday, October 23 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
India will also lock horns with defending champions Australia and last year’s runner-up New Zealand in two more warm-up games before the mega event.
For more T20 World Cup News: (Spotz18.com)
