Aakash Chopra Questions Mohammed Siraj's ODI Exclusion from Indian Team

Aakash Chopra has raised concerns about Mohammed Siraj's exclusion from India's ODI squad, questioning how he became a one-format player. Despite Siraj's impressive Test record, his absence from white-ball cricket has puzzled many, especially after India's recent loss to South Africa. Chopra highlights the inconsistency in team selections, noting that while other bowlers are given opportunities, Siraj remains sidelined. The discussion comes as the ODI series is tied at 1-1, with the next match approaching. This situation raises questions about Siraj's future in the ODI format and the team's bowling strategy.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 4, 2025, 12:47 IST

Concerns Over Siraj's One-Format Status

Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has expressed his bewilderment regarding Mohammed Siraj's recent omission from India's ODI squad. He finds it hard to comprehend how Siraj has transitioned into a one-format player. This discussion arose following India's inability to defend a total of 359 runs in the second ODI against South Africa held in Raipur. Although Siraj has excelled in Test cricket, amassing 139 wickets in 45 matches, his presence in the white-ball format has been inconsistent. He participated in the ODIs during the recent tour of Australia but was left out of the squad for the South Africa series.

Chopra's Thoughts on Siraj's Situation

"What is happening with Mohammed Siraj? I truly cannot grasp it. It baffles me that he has become a one-format player. When did this change occur? His performances in Test cricket showcase his passion, commitment, and wicket-taking skills," Aakash Chopra remarked in a video shared on his X account.

Siraj's ODI Performance

In the 50-over format, Siraj has shown promise, taking 73 wickets in 47 matches with an average of 24.67 and an economy rate of 5.17, including a five-wicket haul. Currently, the 31-year-old fast bowler is part of the Indian Test team but is also competing in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy for Hyderabad. Chopra questioned, "How did he disappear from ODI cricket? His absence from the Champions Trophy selection was disappointing, especially since he was the top wicket-taker for India in ODIs two years ago."

The Mystery of Siraj's Absence

Chopra highlighted that while Siraj has been absent from the white-ball format, bowlers like Harshit Rana and Prasidh Krishna have been given opportunities. "Suddenly, Siraj's name is missing from the lineup. Others are playing, but he is nowhere to be found in ODIs or T20Is. Why did this happen? I personally do not understand when he became a single-format player," Chopra concluded.

Bowling Struggles in the Series

In the second ODI, both Harshit Rana and Prasidh Krishna faced challenges with their economy rates. Rana allowed 70 runs in 10 overs while taking one wicket, and Krishna conceded 85 runs in 8.2 overs, securing two wickets. With this victory, the three-match ODI series is now tied at 1-1, with the next match scheduled for Saturday at the Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam.