Table of Contents
Introduction
India pacer Mohammed Siraj recently found himself at the centre of a selection controversy after he was left out of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad. Despite consistently performing well in international cricket over the last few years, Siraj was left out and the selectors picked Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana. Rohit Sharma justified the decision by citing Siraj’s struggles with the old ball, but the pacer presented statistics to prove the claim wrong.
Why was Mohammed Siraj dropped?
Selectors’ Viewpoint
The selectors preferred bowlers who they believed could offer better versatility, especially in the middle and death overs. With only three specialist pacers picked, the selection panel preferred bowlers who could provide depth in all phases of the game.
Rohit Sharma’s statement
During the press conference, India captain Rohit Sharma explained Siraj’s exclusion, saying:
“If Siraj doesn’t take the new ball, his effectiveness will reduce a bit. We discussed it in detail and since we are only taking three fast bowlers, we wanted an all-rounder with us.”
Rohit insisted that the decision was purely tactical, with team balance in mind.
Mohammed Siraj’s reaction
Backed by stats
Siraj dismissed claims of his ineffectiveness with the old ball by presenting his recent records. Speaking ahead of the IPL 2025 season, he said:
“I have taken the most wickets with the old ball among the ten fastest bowlers in the world last year. My economy rate is also low. The stats speak for themselves. I have performed well with both the new and old balls.”
Focus on performance
Instead of focusing on selection decisions, Siraj shifted his focus to the upcoming challenges. He admitted that selection matters are beyond his control and expressed his determination to perform better in future tournaments, especially the IPL and the England tour.
How did the Indian team perform without Siraj?
Harshit Rana’s brilliant performance
The decision to include Harshit Rana in place of Siraj proved to be a masterstroke. The young pacer played a key role in India’s Champions Trophy win and silenced critics who questioned his selection.
Arshdeep Singh’s role
Arshdeep’s inclusion also helped him handle pressure situations effectively, justifying the faith the selectors had reposed in him.
Siraj’s future plans
IPL 2025 and Gujarat Titans
Siraj is now channelling his energies into the IPL, where he aims to make an impact with the Gujarat Titans. A strong IPL season could strengthen his claim for future national team selection.
Targeting England tour
With India’s tour of England approaching, Siraj is optimistic of proving himself in different conditions. His ability to swing the ball effectively in English conditions could earn him a recall.
Conclusion
Siraj’s exclusion from the Champions Trophy squad created controversy, but he is focused on his performance. His reaction to Rohit Sharma’s claim is backed by statistics that prove his reliability with the old ball. Looking ahead, his focus is on the upcoming tournaments, where he can reaffirm his position as one of India’s premier fast bowlers.
