The Indian team management is expected to take a final decision on Mohammed Siraj’s bowling workload within the next two days as the squad prepares for the one-off Test against Afghanistan. Siraj, 32, has already arrived in Chandigarh, and his availability will be determined after a fresh assessment by the medical group.
Key takeaways
- India’s call on Mohammed Siraj’s participation is expected within 48 hours before the Afghanistan Test.
- Siraj has reached Chandigarh already, and his fitness status is being monitored by the team’s medical staff.
- If Siraj is rested, Auqib Nabi is likely to be included and Gurnoor Brar could make his debut.
- Siraj completed a demanding IPL run with Gujarat Titans, featuring in every match, including the final on May 31.
- The one-off Test is scheduled at the New Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) International Stadium in New Chandigarh, followed by three ODIs.
Siraj’s fitness check and possible reshuffle
Team officials are weighing whether to reduce Mohammed Siraj’s workload for the Afghanistan Test. Medical personnel have continued to track his condition, but the ultimate decision will come after another evaluation during the next two days. If the final call goes in favour of resting him, Auqib Nabi is expected to replace Siraj in the Test squad.
There were discussions about giving Siraj a break for the one-off match, yet decision-makers were reluctant to assemble a bowling unit that would be entirely without match-ready experience. If a late rest is confirmed, Gurnoor Brar is considered the most likely option to take the field for his first appearance at this level, while Nabi would be drafted into the squad.
A source close to the situation noted that Siraj has endured a long season and that, should he be rested, there is a strong chance Gurnoor Brar gets the opportunity to play and Nabi comes into the group.
IPL workload, replacements in contention, and net bowlers
Mohammed Siraj’s workload has been a point of focus because of his extended run in the Indian Premier League. He played throughout the Gujarat Titans campaign, appearing in every match, including the tournament final on May 31. In that final, the Titans were beaten by five wickets by Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
Auqib Nabi has already joined the India squad as one of six net bowlers supporting the team’s preparation for the Test. Nabi recently produced a standout Ranji Trophy season, taking 60 wickets and helping Jammu & Kashmir lift the title. Alongside Nabi, the pace options in training include Gurjapneet Singh and Prince Yadav, while the spin group featuring in the nets comprises Saransh Jain, Zeeshan Ansari and Shivang Kumar.
Venue and the schedule after the Test
The one-off Test will be held at the New Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) International Stadium in New Chandigarh. After that match, India’s tour continues with three ODI games scheduled in Dharamsala, Lucknow and Chennai.
