India T20 WC Squad: Chasing a spot in India’s T20 World Cup squad, the Indian reserves had an off day in the first India vs SouthAfrica ODI at Lucknow. Deepak Chahar was dropped to the bench for the game, while Mohammed Siraj and Ravi Bishnoi were lacklustre at best as South Africa piled on the misery. Follow India vs South Africa live updates on Insidesport.IN
India T20 WC Squad: No Deepak Chahar, Ravi Bishnoi DISAPPOINTS, Mohammed Siraj delivers AVERAGE show in T20 World Cup audition in 1st ODI, Check OUT
While the ODI series vs South Africa were considered a final chance of impression for the T20 World Cup reserves, it has not been a rosy start for the players in contention. Deepak Chahar, one of the front runners to replace Jasprit Bumrah was dropped from the playing XI for Avesh Khan.
Mohammed Siraj, another pacer chasing the world cup spot, had a forgettable outing going wicketless in Lucknow. Siraj conceded 49 runs in his 8 overs while dropping a crucial catch which allowed the Proteas to go big at the death. It was Siraj’s 3rd drop in two games, while he also conceded 44 in his four in the final T20I.
Ravi Bishnoi meanwhile had a horrific start to his ODI career as the South African batters took him to the cleaners. The likes of Miller and Klassen took him apart as the young wrist spinner conceded 69 in his eight overs. While he did dismiss the dangerous Quinton de Kock, his overall lack of impact will have done him little favour.
India T20 WC Squad: No Deepak Chahar, Ravi Bishnoi DISAPPOINTS, Mohammed Siraj delivers AVERAGE show in T20 World Cup audition in 1st ODI, Check out
India are waiting on naming a replacement for Jasprit Bumrah until October 15. The South Africa series thus provides the likes of Siraj and Chahar the opportunity to make their mark, especially with front-runner Mohammed Shami out of action.