The pacer's recent form has not been convincing.
A former Indian player has made a huge statement while defending an underfiring Indian pacer. Citing examples of Virat Kohli and KL Rahul, he said that when they can continue, why can’t that speedster whose recent form has been poor?
Aakash Chopra has come in the support of Mohammed Siraj, whose place is under threat after a series of below-par performances. On Jio Cinema, he said Siraj should be given time to regain his lost form just like the backing has been given to Kohli and Rahul.
“When KL Rahul and Kohli can continue despite their ordinary performances, why is there a problem with Siraj? Virat isn’t a small player & has been phenomenal for the team. KL has also shown his class. In the same way, we should give time to Siraj as well.”
Mohammed Siraj has snared only 12 wickets at an average of 42.83 and a strike rate of 66.66 in 14 outings since the English series earlier this year. His lines and lengths have been erratic, and Siraj hasn’t looked in rhythm, either, increasing the workload of Jasprit Bumrah to do the heavy lifting in the pace department.
After another below-par performance in the first Test against New Zealand, Mohammed Siraj might be given a break to re-work his game. Akash Deep, who has been impactful in his short Test career, might get a place in the XI.
Akash’s attributes are ideal for the Indian conditions, for he bowls on the stump line, and his lengths are immaculate. Hence, it allows him to pin batters in their crease and get more bowled and LBWs, and given his recent form, the team might be tempted to draft him in, especially after losing the first game.
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It will also help Siraj to get some time off and see where his bowling lacks so that he can work on them and come back roaring. His presence will be crucial on Australia decks, especially after his success last time around.
Siraj has 13 wickets at 29.53 runs apiece in six innings in Australia, including a five-wicket haul. A lot will depend on how he performs in the Border Gavaskar Trophy.
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