After a disappointing five-match Test series in Australia, the Indian cricket team is eager to bounce back as they gear up for a white-ball series against England at home. The series, featuring five T20Is and three ODIs, will serve as crucial preparation for the Champions Trophy 2025, set to begin on February 19.
Former India batter Navjot Singh Sidhu has weighed in on the selection for the Champions Trophy, suggesting four fast bowlers to lead India’s attack: Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Mohammed Shami, and Arshdeep Singh.
Highlighting the importance of a collective bowling unit, Sidhu wrote on his official X handle, “Fast bowlers hunt in pairs or packs – a lone wolf is nothing but a pack ineffective. With @mdsirajofficial bowling his heart out, @MdShami11 fit, and a left-arm fast bowler like @arshdeepsinghh, this could be a lethal, match-winning combination… Relentless pressure!”
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Jasprit Bumrah, who has been in stellar form over the past two years, recently claimed the Player of the Series award in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and is expected to spearhead the attack. Mohammed Siraj also impressed during the Australia series with his tireless efforts and game-changing spells.
Fast bowler s hunt in pairs or packs – a lone wolf is nothing but a pack effective…. With @mdsirajofficial bowling his heart out @MdShami11 fit and a left hand fast bowler like @arshdeepsinghh would be great asset – both him and Bumrah were picking up a wicket after 13 delivery…
— Navjot Singh Sidhu (@sherryontopp) January 15, 2025
Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami returns to the Indian squad for the T20I series against England, marking his comeback since the ODI World Cup 2023 final. Shami proved his fitness with strong performances in domestic cricket for Bengal, making him a reliable addition to the attack.
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Arshdeep Singh has been India’s go-to bowler in T20Is, picking up 95 wickets in 60 matches. Though his recent performances have been mixed, with seven wickets in eight games, his left-arm angle adds a unique dimension to India’s bowling lineup, potentially making him a key asset in pressure situations.
With these four pacers in the mix, India will aim to build a formidable attack for the Champions Trophy and reignite their winning momentum in white-ball cricket.