Possibility of Bumrah, Siraj and Shami playing in tandem appears slim as all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been doing the third seamer’s job fairly well

Sayak Banerjee

Calcutta | Published 19.09.23, 08:14 AM

Mohammed Siraj’s Rise in International Cricket

• Mohammed Siraj was the highest wicket-taker for India in the 2020-21 tour of Australia
• He continued his success in the Asia Cup, leading India to victory
• Siraj has shown consistency and evolution as a bowler
• His ability to swing and move the ball both ways has impressed
• Siraj has proven himself in both pacer-friendly and challenging conditions

Competition for a Spot in the XI

• Skipper Rohit Sharma and coach Rahul Dravid preferred Siraj over Shami in the Asia Cup
• Siraj’s performance makes it difficult to leave him out of the XI
• Shami’s experience and skills are still valued by the team management
• Conditions will determine Shami’s comeback to the XI

Siraj’s Consistency and Improvement

• Siraj has shown immense consistency in his performances
• He has developed a strong outswinger and improved his overall variation
• Fitness and freshness give Siraj an advantage over Shami
• Rotation is expected to bring Shami back into action

Roles and Possibility of Playing Together

• Hardik Pandya has been performing well as the third seamer
• The possibility of Bumrah, Siraj, and Shami playing together appears slim
• However, certain pitches and conditions may favor the trio playing together

Source: The Telegraph