Irfan Pathan Suggests Siraj Over Chahar for South Africa T20I Series

With India gearing up to face South Africa in a high-octane T20I series, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan weighs in on India’s potential bowling combination, particularly regarding the choice between Mohammed Siraj and Deepak Chahar as the third seamer.

The three-match T20I series kicks off in Durban on Sunday, December 10, with India boasting a 17-member squad comprising four seamers and an equal number of spinners.

In a discussion on the Star Sports show ‘Game Plan,’ Pathan emphasized the need for three fast bowlers, highlighting Arshdeep Singh and Mukesh Kumar as likely inclusions. However, the crucial decision, according to Pathan, rests between Siraj and Chahar.

“You need to have three fast bowlers. There will be Arshdeep (Singh) for sure, Mukesh Kumar for sure, and obviously, they will have to choose between Mohammed Siraj and Deepak Chahar,” Pathan said.

Expressing his preference, Pathan advocated for Mohammed Siraj’s inclusion over Chahar, citing Siraj’s impressive performances in ODI cricket and urging the management to give him an extended run. He highlighted Siraj’s potential in delivering yorkers and contributing with the new ball.

“Mohammed Siraj is going all guns blazing. He is especially doing well in ODI cricket. Why not try him and give him a long run? You might find a guy who can nail the yorkers as well eventually and bowl a couple of good overs with the new ball.”

Pathan underlined the importance of longevity and fitness in player selections, noting Chahar’s history of injury concerns. He stressed the need for players who can secure a long-term spot in the squad, seeing Siraj as a valuable prospect for the future.

With Chahar currently absent from the South Africa tour due to his father’s health, Siraj stands poised for inclusion in the playing XI if India opts for three seamers.

Discussing spin options, Pathan emphasized the certainty of Ravindra Jadeja in the XI and suggested Washington Sundar as a valuable asset, particularly for his ability to bowl with the new ball. Pathan highlighted Sundar’s effectiveness against left-handed batters as a significant advantage.

While acknowledging Ravi Bishnoi and Kuldeep Yadav as other spin options, Pathan proposed that either of them might get the nod over Sundar if the team aims for an aggressive spinner, prioritizing attacking prowess over batting depth.

As India navigates their bowling options for the T20I series against South Africa, Pathan’s insights shed light on the potential strategies and considerations for the team’s composition in the upcoming matches.