Ajit Agarkarhead coach of the league Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)addressed the notable omission of the fast bowler Mohammed Siraj from the Indian team for ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The announcement sparked considerable debate among cricket fans and analysts regarding the rationale behind the decision.
The reason for Mohammed Siraj’s exclusion
During the press conference, which was also attended by the Indian captain Rohit SharmaAgarkar explained that selectors had to make tough decisions based on team composition and strategy.
“But that’s only because we thought it that way. We’re not sure [Jasprit] Bumrah (to be fit for the third ODI against England), whether he will play or not. We wanted to pick a team where we have both options, someone who will throw the ball with the new ball and someone who will throw the ball in the background. Obviously, with Bumrah missing, we’re not sure.
Agarkar emphasized that Siraj’s effectiveness diminishes when he is not used as a bowler, which influenced their decision to pick Arshdeep Singh instead.
“We wanted Arshdeep to come in and play that role of bowling in the back and [Mohammed] Shami, obviously we’ve seen what he’s done with the new ball and that’s where we feel Siraj’s effectiveness diminishes a bit if he doesn’t want to take the new ball.
“We talked about it for a long time and we are only taking three seamers there because we wanted all-rounders with us. It’s a shame that he has to miss out, but we had no choice but to take guys who can play a certain role. Personally, I think we have guys who can throw the ball with the new ball and be effective up the middle and then be effective at the back end so you have to cover all three aspects of the game,” added the former Indian pacer.
India will play Pakistan on February 23
India will begin their Champions Trophy campaign against Bangladesh on February 20, followed by the highly anticipated game against Pakistan February 23. Siraj’s absence will put extra pressure on the pace attack pick, which includes Bumrah, Arshdeep and Mohammed Shami.
As India prepare for these crucial matches, all eyes will be on how the select bowlers are doing without one of their most effective pacers. The selectors’ strategy will be put to the test as they aim for success in one of cricket’s most prestigious tournaments.
