Xtra Time Web Desk: The Indian cricket team is likely to make a strategic change in their Playing XI for the second ODI against Australia at Indore. Mohammed Siraj, who showcased his heroics in the Asia Cup final, is set to be back in the playing XI, replacing Shardul Thakur. This decision aims to reestablish India’s formidable pace trio, including Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Siraj.
Siraj had been rested for the first ODI, allowing Shami to shine with a five-wicket haul, significantly contributing to India’s victory. The batting lineup appears steady with KL Rahul leading in the absence of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Hardik Pandya. The spin department is also well-maintained with the presence of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja.
The decision to include Siraj is evident, given his recent impressive performance in the Asia Cup final, where he claimed remarkable figures of 6/21. With the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 looming, India needs to solidify their playing combinations, and the trio of Bumrah, Siraj, and Shami should be in sync, with Prasidh Krishna as a valuable backup option.
In this scenario, Shardul Thakur, despite his potential, faces the axe due to his subpar bowling performance in the previous game, where he conceded 78 runs in 10 overs. With the World Cup on the horizon, it’s crucial for Indian team management to make strategic choices and maximize their chances of success with a well-balanced squad.
Here is the likely playing XI for India: Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (c & wk), Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj