Former Indian batsman VVX Laxman backs Ishant Sharma over Mohammad Siraj for the upcoming World Test Championship Final against New Zealand, which will be played in Southampton from June 18.

Rumours are doing rounds that Indian team management is willing to fit Siraj in the playing XI for the WTC final and either Ishant Sharma or Mohammed Shami can face the axe. However, Laxman feels Ishant should be picked instead of Siraj for this game.

Also Read: VVS Laxman picks India as favourites to win WTC Final

“I feel Siraj is confident after the way he performed against Australia and also against England. But the way Ishant has contributed over the years to Indian cricket is unbelievable,” Laxman told Sports Today.

“What we want in the all-important final is a lot of experience, and the way Ishant has given the solidity to the Indian bowling line-up has been exceptional. So I would go with Ishant, Shami, and Bumrah as my three pacers in the WTC final.”

Veteran batsman feels India is privileged to have such a quality fast bowling lineup.

“There is a lot of experience and class in this fast-bowling line-up. All five bowlers are match-winners. I think that’s a blessing for this Indian team. One of the reasons we are playing the WTC final is how the bowling attack has performed consistently. Not only in overseas conditions, even in Indian conditions,” said Laxman.

Also Read: VVS Laxman feels Mohammad Siraj will become a great bowler in future

Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja are India’s premium spinners in the Test squad. Laxman feels India have a quality bowling lineup that can restrict any batting order.

“I think India have five quality bowlers, who have done well in restricting the opposition and putting pressure. I think it is because of their experience they have been able to perform so well,” added Laxman.

India will face New Zealand in the WTC final in Southampton. Later on, England will host India in a five-match Test series, scheduled to begin in August.