New Delhi: The Indian team got the start it needed in the ODI series. Despite an inexperienced bowling attack, the Indian team performed brilliantly in the first ODI against New Zealand in Auckland, defeating New Zealand by 5 wickets. The second match of the series is now scheduled to be played in Wellington, and star Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj is expected to return. Consequently, Aaqib Nabi may have to sit out of the team.
Why did Siraj not play in the first ODI?
The Indian playing XI for the first ODI at Eden Park Stadium in Auckland included four fast bowlers. However, Mohammed Siraj’s name was missing from the squad. This surprised many. Former fast bowler Dodda Ganesh even questioned the decision and criticized the team management. However, the reason for Siraj’s absence was different.
In fact, the three-day Test match between India A and New Zealand A had concluded just a day before the Auckland ODI, and Siraj was part of that match. He was asked to play this match to prepare for the Test series. This match was played in Lincoln, about 780 kilometers from Auckland. Therefore, arriving in Auckland overnight and taking the field without rest or preparation could have proved fatal.
Returning in the second ODI, whose place will he take?
This is why Siraj didn’t arrive in Auckland and was asked to travel directly to Wellington, where the second ODI will be played on November 7th. Siraj is highly likely to play in this match. But who will replace him in the playing XI? Making changes to the fast bowling attack will be difficult, especially after New Zealand were bowled out for just 185.
But someone will have to fill the gap, and that bowler could be Aaqib Nabi. Nabi, a right-arm pacer, impressed in Auckland. He opened the bowling with Arshdeep Singh, particularly with the new ball, and troubled the Kiwi openers several times. However, he failed to get a wicket, as Naman Dheer dropped a simple catch off his bowling. After this, his bowling suddenly began to lose its edge. Therefore, his case is currently the weakest, and Siraj could take his place.
