In pursuit of a comeback in the IND vs ENG 2nd Test, Rohit Sharma and his team have introduced intriguing changes as they seek to maintain their winning streak in Hyderabad. The debutant Rajat Patidar has been included in the lineup, and due to the injury to Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav has taken his place. However, in one of the most interesting changes, Mohammed Siraj was replaced by Mukesh Kumar.
Siraj has even been released from the squad so that he could spend time at home before he comes back and was available for the third Test.
Siraj had a subdued performance in Hyderabad during the first Test, bowling only 11 overs across both innings. Fortunately, his absence is not due to injury; Rohit Sharma clarified that Siraj is being rested to manage his workload. Since the Asia Cup in August/September last year, Siraj has been consistently on the road, participating in various tournaments and series, making this rest crucial for his overall well-being.
While Mukesh Kumar may not be recognized for bowling at speeds of 140 kmph or more, he possesses a solid understanding of variations, making him a fitting replacement for the second Test.
In the Hyderabad Test, Siraj proved ineffective, going wicketless, prompting the decision to rest him for the upcoming Test in favour of Mukesh Kumar. With the Vizag track’s slow nature, the 30-year-old cricketer would be enthusiastic about employing his variations effectively, having seamlessly taken over the role from Siraj.
India Playing XI:
Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar, Shreyas Iyer, Ks Bharat†, Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Mukesh Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav
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