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The cricketing world was abuzz with anticipation as the captains of India and England strode into the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam for the toss ahead of the second Test in the thrilling five-match series.
Fans were on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting team changes following India’s defeat in the opening game and the absence of seasoned players Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul due to injuries. However, the excitement took a turn when Indian captain Rohit Sharma revealed that pacer Mohammed Siraj would not be part of the playing XI, leaving fans curious about the reason behind this unexpected decision.
Rajat Patidar’s debut and Mohammed Siraj’s exclusion
Upon winning the toss, Rohit shared the exciting news of young batter Rajat Patidar making his debut in the second Test. However, the mood soured as Rohit mentioned that Siraj was being rested, prompting speculation about the reasons behind this surprising move.
“Injuries are part and parcel of the game, but that’s why we have the guys sitting on the bench. Two unforced changes (meant forced) – Jadeja and KL miss out, and Siraj has been rested. We’ve got Mukesh, Kuldeep and Rajat Patidar making his debut,” said Rohit during the toss.
Also READ: Rajat Patidar reveals what skills he wants to learn from Virat Kohli
An official update from BCCI on Siraj’s exclusion
To quell the growing curiosity surrounding Siraj’s exclusion, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) issued an official update on social media. The statement revealed that the Hyderabad-born seamer had been given a well-deserved rest and was relieved from the squad for the second Test. The decision was based on a consideration of the series’ duration and Siraj’s recent busy schedule.
Furthermore, the BCCI clarified that Siraj would be available for selection in the upcoming third Test, putting to rest any concerns about a prolonged absence.
“UPDATE: Mr Mohd. Siraj has been released from the India squad for the second Test against England in Vizag. The decision was taken keeping in mind the duration of the series and the amount of cricket he has played in recent times. He will be available for selection for the third Test in Rajkot. Avesh Khan has re-joined the team for the 2nd Test,” wrote BCCI.
UPDATE: Mr Mohd. Siraj has been released from the India squad for the second Test against England in Vizag.
The decision was taken keeping in mind the duration of the series and the amount of cricket he has played in recent times.
He will be available for selection for the…
— BCCI (@BCCI) February 2, 2024
Siraj’s performance in the opening Test
It’s worth noting that Siraj had a quiet outing in the opening game of the series against England, remaining wicketless. This may have influenced the team management’s decision to provide him with some rest and allow another fast bowler, Avesh Khan, to take his place in the squad for the second Test. Meanwhile, Mukesh Kumar seized the opportunity to step into the playing eleven.
India’s playing XI for the second Test against England
Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar, Shreyas Iyer, Srikar Bharat (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mukesh Kumar
