Why Did Mohammed Siraj Miss Out on the Champions Trophy Squad? Rohit Sharma Explains

India announced their squad for the Champions Trophy 2025, sparking discussions over the omission of Mohammed Siraj. Despite being a key performer in the Asia Cup and ODI World Cup, Siraj was left out of the squad, with captain Rohit Sharma offering insight into the decision.

Rohit Sharma Explains Why Siraj Missed Out

In a press conference on January 18, Rohit explained that Siraj’s exclusion came down to team balance and role requirements. With Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness still uncertain, the team opted for Arshdeep Singh, citing his ability to deliver in the death overs as a key factor.

Also Read: Why Karun Nair Missed Out on India’s Champions Trophy Squad? Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar Answers

“Only Siraj is not there among experienced players. We’re not sure of Bumrah’s availability, so we picked Arshdeep to cover both upfront and death overs,” said Rohit. “Siraj’s effectiveness reduces when he doesn’t take the new ball. It’s unfortunate, but we needed players who fit specific roles.”

Bumrah’s Fitness Update

Bumrah, recovering from a back spasm suffered during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, is set to miss the first two ODIs against England. Harshit Rana has been named as his backup for the series.

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar added, “Bumrah has been advised to rest for five weeks. His status will be reviewed in early February.”

Siraj’s Recent Performances

While Siraj shone in the Asia Cup 2023 final with a six-wicket haul, his recent performances have been inconsistent. In the ODI series against Sri Lanka, he took just three wickets in three matches, conceding 78 runs in nine overs in the final game. His World Cup campaign saw him take 14 wickets in 11 matches at an average of 33.50 and an economy of 5.68.

Arshdeep Singh has been chosen for his recent exploits. The left-arm pacer has claimed 12 wickets in eight ODIs at an average of 24.08, including a five-wicket haul. He also impressed in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, finishing as the highest wicket-taker with 20 wickets in seven matches.

India’s Champions Trophy Squad:

• Rohit Sharma (c)
• Shubman Gill (vc)
• Virat Kohli
• Shreyas Iyer
• KL Rahul (wk)
• Rishabh Pant (wk)
• Hardik Pandya
• Ravindra Jadeja
• Axar Patel
• Washington Sundar
• Kuldeep Yadav
• Jasprit Bumrah*
• Mohammed Shami
• Arshdeep Singh
• Yashasvi Jaiswal

*Harshit Rana to replace Bumrah in the England ODIs if needed.

India’s Champions Trophy campaign starts on February 20 against Bangladesh in Dubai, followed by games against Pakistan on February 23 and New Zealand on March 2. Before that, they will play England in a three-match ODI series from February 6 to 12.

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