The Indian team for the Champions Trophy 2025 finally comes out with some notable inclusions in the team, such as Yashasvi Jaiswalearning his first call-up to the Indian team in ODI format, Arshdeep Singh being picked once again for India in white-ball cricket, and Kuldeep Yadav appearing in the squads after being out of the team due to an adductor injury.
However, while there are many surprising inclusions, several players have not been given a place in the team. The most prominent among these players is the star Indian pacer. Mohammed Siraj who was dropped from the Indian team after India’s test series loss against Australia.
In light of this surprising exclusion of Siraj from the squad, here are two possible reasons why the Indian pace sensation has been excluded from the Indian squad for the Champions Trophy 2025.
Reasons why Mohammed Siraj was excluded from the Indian team for the Champions Trophy 2025
A major criticism of Siraj has been his inability to fully utilize his bowling potential in the ODI format. His recent record serves to reinforce this concern. For example, in the series, Siraj bowled a total of 157.1 overs, second only to the Australian captain. Pat Cummins, who bowled 167 overs. However, despite his considerable workload, Siraj conceded 623 runs, the highest among the top five wicket-keepers in the series. While the 30-year-old claimed 20 wickets, his inability to control his running speed ultimately proved costly for the team, particularly during the Test matches in Melbourne and Sydney.
indian pattern Rohit Sharma hinted at Siraj’s lack of effectiveness in the press conference announcing the Indian team for the Champions Trophy 2025. Siraj was a point of discussion as the media kept asking the reason for Siraj’s non-participation in the Indian team.
“Mohammad Siraj is not effective and his effectiveness decreases as the ball ages.” Rohit said when asked about Siraj, pointing out his lack of effectiveness as the main reason why Siraj was dropped from the Indian team.
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- The change of dynamics in the Indian team:
Another key reason for Siraj’s exclusion from the Indian team is the selection of several players selected exclusively for the ODI format. Arshdeep Singh, who has consistently delivered impressive performances in white-ball cricket, has earned his place in the team. Furthermore, the management of the Indian team has opted to strengthen the effects department with the inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel and Sundar of Washington. This strategic decision has led to the inclusion of only three traditional pacers in the squad. Besides, Hardik Pandya He is expected to play a more prominent role as a fast bowling all-rounder, and the team is likely to use him for crucial transitions, especially if the pitch offers favorable conditions for pace bowling.