Siraj Over Akash Deep; Ex-India Cricketer Slams Rohit And Gambhir For Poor Selection In 1st Test
![Mohammed Siraj (L) and Akash Deep (R) [Source: @SPORTYVISHAL/ X.com]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1729489471228_Mohammed_Siraj (1).jpg?im=Resize=(650,450))
Mohammed Siraj (L) and Akash Deep (R) [Source: @SPORTYVISHAL/ X.com]
Former Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary has criticized Rohit Sharma’s captaincy during the first Test match against New Zealand, where India lost by eight wickets. The defeat has put India 0-1 behind in the three-match series. Tiwary believes the team management made key mistakes that affected the game and could have long-term consequences.
Mohd. Siraj’s Struggles And Need For Change
Tiwary pointed out that Mohammed Siraj, India’s second fast bowler, has struggled to pick wickets in the second innings over the past seven Test matches. His performance this year has raised concerns, as he has looked out of rhythm, especially on home pitches. Siraj’s lack of impact was evident in the recent game, despite favorable conditions for fast bowlers.
Tiwary suggested that resting Siraj could help him regain form and focus on his bowling basics. With important series like the Border-Gavaskar Trophy coming up, Siraj needs to be fully fit and mentally refreshed.
Akash Deep Deserves A Chance
Tiwary believes that Akash Deep, who is in excellent form, should have been selected over Siraj for the New Zealand series. Akash Deep recently grabbed five wickets in two Test matches against Bangladesh, following a nine-wicket haul in the Duleep Trophy. His exclusion from the first Test left him disappointed and could damage his confidence.
“I believe that if you have a bowler who is in rhythm, is picking wickets in international and domestic cricket, and has that X factor as well, pick him in the squad and play him. Siraj has not picked a single wicket in the second innings in Tests this year, which is quite concerning. He should have been rested for a few games, so that he gets the time to focus on the basics and work on his release, " he said on Cricbuzz.
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"We have a lot of back-up bowlers. Akash Deep performed impressively against Bangladesh. His confidence level was high. He never would have imagined not playing the first Test in those conditions. He must have been left shocked not seeing his name in the playing XI. But he is certain to bounce. You also have Mayank Yadav in Bengaluru with the team, right after featuring in the T20I series. Players like him should have been used,” he added.
A Win-Win Situation For India
Akash Deep has shown his potential by taking 8 wickets in just three Test matches at an average of 23.12. His knack for picking up wickets in clusters was evident during his debut against England. With the second Test set to take place in Pune, it could be an ideal opportunity to rest Siraj and allow Akash Deep to build experience.
Managing Siraj’s workload wisely would also help India keep him fresh for the challenging series in Australia later this year. Tiwary believes giving Akash Deep game time now will benefit India in the long run, especially since Siraj has been underwhelming in home conditions this year.
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