ENG vs IND | Agarkar wants Mohammed Siraj and Shardul Thakur as the third and fourth choice bowlers

With the most-awaited India vs England fifth and final test coming up, fans across the globe and cricketing legends are excited to see the two powerhouses face each other. This is the final match of the five-match Test series, which was conducted in August last year. But unfortunately, the fifth match had to be postponed due to the COVID-19 protocols.

India are currently leading the series 2-1, and they will look to seal the series with a good result. 

Meanwhile, former Indian pacer, Ajit Agarkar, has stated that he would like Mohammed Siraj and Shardul Thakur as the team's third and fourth choice pacers for the upcoming series. The leading pace bowlers in the side are Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami. 

"Siraj had a really good series last year when India played those four Tests (against England) and he is one of most improved bowlers around at the moment. So I don't see any reason why Siraj would miss out," Agarkar said during an interview with Sony Sports.

Agarkar also highlighted Shardul Thakur's all-round ability and how the team can benefit from his batting and bowling. 

He stated, "Shardul offers a bit more with the bat at number eight, and if there is likely help for the seamers, then he becomes even more effective. There is some swing and seam on offer.

"So, I would think that's the way they go. Otherwise, the tail becomes too long, if, at eight, you look at someone like Umesh (Yadav) or even Prasidh Krisna as part of the squad. But I think, Shardul will probably make (the cut) if they go with four seamers".

Though Siraj had a mediocre season in the recent IPL edition, Agarkar believes it will not drastically affect his selection. 

"I don't think Siraj necessarily bowled badly, and I don't think you need to equate IPL to test cricket in England. So, you see his form in Test cricket in the last 12 months. Even when India played New Zealand at home, he (Siraj) was really good. And he can do the tough work for you. When the ball is a little bit older can bowl long spells and bowl quick. I would be surprised if he (Siraj) is not the third seamer," reasoned Agarkar.

Also, Agarkar has heaped praise on Cheteshwar Pujara, who has had an impeccable County Championship stint. He has amassed 720 runs in just five matches for Sussex, with four centuries and two double-centuries.

"It is a good thing for the Indian team that he (Pujara) was there, and playing in those conditions. Also, he has the experience, with 90-odd tests. No doubt it has come at the right time, also because it is a one-off test and not many other Indian batters are playing in these conditions, so certainly it (Pujara played county) will be an advantage," claimed Agarkar.

The fifth and final Test match will be played at Edgbaston from 1 July.