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Irfan Pathan discusses Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh’s ODI chances against Australia, with Shubman Gill leading India.
Harshit Rana will be in focus on Sunday against Australia (Picture Credit: PTI)
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has said that Mohammed Siraj has done well in Tests and has a chance to seal his spot in the ODI team if he puts up a good show against Australia, especially after he was snubbed from the Champions Trophy squad earlier this year.
Irfan reflected that not just Siraj, but Arshdeep Singh too will have a chance to perform in the absence of ace India pacer Jasprit Bumrah. The latter has been rested for the ODI series.
Siraj last played an ODI in August 2024. Since then, India’s next ODI appearance was only in the Champions Trophy, in which he didn’t find a place.
“This isn’t Australia’s main team. Many players aren’t there. Australia’s middle-order batting is in transition. India will play without Bumrah, so the pacers have an opportunity. Siraj has returned,” Irfan said while speaking on his YouTube channel.
“There were questions about his (Siraj’s) place in the ODI side. But in Tests, he has done well and he has an opportunity to seal his spot in the ODI team. India appears to have more experience, even though it is the touring side,” Irfan said.
The former Indian cricketer suggested that Harshit Rana could be included as the third pacer at No. 8, highlighting his value not just with the ball but for his batting abilities as well.
“I think Harshit will play. He is the only bowler in this unit who can also bat. I think he will be promoted to the number eight position. I see him in that position as the third fast bowler,” Irfan said.
Shubman Gill has been named India’s ODI skipper for the Australia series, with Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli returning to the team as players under his captaincy.
“India will be under a new leader. They will play under Shubman Gill. A big challenge for Gill will be how much respect he moves forward with Rohit Sharma. This is very important,” Irfan said.
October 17, 2025, 23:14 IST
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