Mohammed Siraj ODI exclusion questioned by Aakash Chopra

Former India opener Aakash Chopra has raised strong concerns over Mohammed Siraj’s reduced role in white-ball cricket. Once a key member across formats, Siraj is now mostly seen only in Test cricket, sparking debate among fans and experts about his sudden absence from ODIs and T20Is. Chopra’s comments come in the wake of India’s underwhelming bowling performance in the ongoing ODI series against South Africa. So let’s know about Mohammed Siraj ODI exclusion.

Aakash Chopra Questions Siraj’s One-Format Tag

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Aakash Chopra criticised the selection approach that has seemingly restricted Siraj to Test cricket. He stated that it is hard to understand how a bowler once praised for his aggression and wicket-taking skills has been sidelined in limited-overs formats.

Chopra highlighted that with Jasprit Bumrah also absent, the current pace attack lacks experience — a void Siraj could have easily filled.

Once a Mainstay in ODIs, Now Missing From Limited-Overs Squad

Siraj was one of India’s most reliable pacers in ODIs until 2023. He even finished as the leading wicket-taker for India in the format two years ago. Yet, despite his credentials, he played only 3 ODIs in 2024 and another 3 in 2025.

So far, Siraj has 73 wickets in 47 ODIs at an impressive average of 24.67. Chopra expressed disappointment that despite strong numbers, his name continues to be absent from ODI and T20I squads.

“When Did He Become a Single-Format Player?” – Chopra

Chopra questioned the decision-making behind Siraj’s omission, especially when other young pacers like Harshit Rana and Prasidh Krishna are receiving opportunities.

He wondered when exactly Siraj transitioned into a single-format cricketer, stressing that there has been no clear explanation for his exclusion.

Future Uncertain, Fans Seek Answers

As Siraj continues to feature in domestic cricket, speculation grows over whether the selectors will consider him again for white-ball cricket. With India struggling for experienced pacers in ODIs, questions raised by Aakash Chopra may push the debate further.

Only time will tell if Siraj returns as a three-format bowler or continues to remain a Test specialist.

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