The BCCI Selection Committee has finally announced the squad for the IND vs BAN 1st Test. And it saw the return of Jasprit Bumrah. And with the ace pacer returning, the spot for the second pacer is up for grabs. Who makes the final cut? Will it be the more experienced Siraj or the in-form Akash Deep? But as things stands, it would be the latter who can make a perfect fit to partner Bumrah instead of Siraj.
Initial reports claimed that Jasprit Bumrah would be rested for the entire series and also the next one, i.e. IND vs NZ Tests. But that was not the case to be. Bumrah’s vacation has been cut short as he returns to India’s setup after his heroics in the ICC T20 World Cup.
Now the question that remains – Who will partner Bumrah in the IND vs BAN 1st Test at Chennai? Mohammed Siraj with his sheer experience is the front runner. But the lanky pacer hasn’t been no where near his best in recent times. White ball cricket continues to be his forte.
Siraj vs Akash Deep – Experience vs Form
When it comes to red ball cricket, he hasn’t been able to find his sweet spot or groove where he can easily weave his magic. On the other hand, India has a very good chance of allowing Akash Deep to partner Bumrah. Earlier this year, the Bengal bowler made his debut in Test cricket in the IND vs ENG Tests.
As Akash Deep continues to flourish in domestic cricket, his fifer in Duleep Trophy is also a testament to his bowling prowess. Furthermore, the bowling style of both the bowlers are quite different which will make Akash Deep’s chances greater.
Since Akash Deep is a traditionally a hit the deck hard bowler, he would be the perfect fit to counter Bumrah who will rely on his sheer pace and swing to outclass batters.
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