The Indian team for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 was announced and it brought with it a few surprises. One of the biggest shocks was the exclusion of Mohammed Siraj from the 15-member squad. Despite being a part of the World Cup 2023 and T20 World Cup 2024, Siraj's poor form in white-ball cricket led to his omission. Young pacer Arshdeep Singh replaced him and the selection committee backed their decision by stating Siraj's lack of effectiveness with the old ball. Along with Siraj, veteran pacer Mohammed Shami also made his much-awaited comeback while Harshit Rana was named as a reserve. With concerns over Jasprit Bumrah's fitness, the pace quartet of Bumrah, Shami, Arshdeep, and Harshit look promising for India but the team will have to be careful with Bumrah's back issue.
Mohammed Siraj Omitted from India's Champions Trophy Squad Amidst Poor Form
The Indian cricket team's squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 has been announced, with a notable omission being Mohammed Siraj. The pacer, who was a part of the World Cup 2023 and T20 World Cup 2024, has been dropped due to his poor form in white-ball cricket.
Background
Mohammed Siraj has been a consistent performer for India in Test cricket, emerging as a key figure in their bowling attack. However, his struggles in limited-overs cricket have been a concern for the selectors. Despite being part of the squads for the previous two major ICC tournaments, Siraj has failed to make a significant impact.
Reasons for Exclusion
The selection committee has cited Siraj's lack of effectiveness with the old ball as the primary reason for his omission from the Champions Trophy squad. In recent white-ball matches, Siraj has struggled to maintain his accuracy and control, conceding runs at a high rate.
Squad Replacement
Young pacer Arshdeep Singh has been selected to replace Siraj in the squad. Singh has impressed with his consistent performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and has been touted as a potential future star for India.
Other Notable Changes
In addition to Siraj's exclusion, veteran pacer Mohammed Shami has made his much-awaited comeback to the Indian squad after recovering from injury. Harshit Rana has been named as a reserve player, providing depth to the pace attack.
Concerns over Bumrah's Fitness
There are concerns over the fitness of Jasprit Bumrah, India's premier fast bowler. Bumrah has been struggling with a back issue and his participation in the Champions Trophy is uncertain.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
Q: Why was Mohammed Siraj omitted from the Champions Trophy squad? A: Siraj's omission is due to his poor form in white-ball cricket, particularly his lack of effectiveness with the old ball.
Q: Who replaced Siraj in the squad? A: Arshdeep Singh, a young pacer who has impressed in the IPL, has been selected to replace Siraj.
Q: What is the reason for Mohammed Shami's comeback? A: Shami has recovered from injury and is considered a valuable addition to the squad due to his experience and skill.
Q: Is Jasprit Bumrah likely to participate in the Champions Trophy? A: Bumrah's participation is uncertain due to concerns over his back issue.
Q: Who is the reserve player for the pace attack? A: Harshit Rana has been named as the reserve player, providing depth to the pace attack.
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