Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson believes Mohammed Shami has surpassed Mohammed Siraj in India’s pace attack as a result of his outstanding bowling in the previous two matches.
Despite missing India’s first four World Cup games, Mohammed Shami made a significant impact, taking nine wickets in two matches. Meanwhile, Siraj has battled with his rhythm since the competition began. He has only taken six wickets in as many games, with an average of more than 48 and an economy of over six runs per over.
Due to Hardik Pandya’s injury, both pacers were included in India’s playing XI against New Zealand and England. However, if they choose Ravichandran Ashwin or Shardul Thakur to replace Pandya, the team may be forced to play one of the two.
Shane Watson, speaking to Star Sports ahead of India’s match against Sri Lanka, stated that Mohammed Shami might replace Siraj as India’s second bowler after Jasprit Bumrah.
“It’s a great problem for India to have. That’s a sign of a team that’s in incredible form where all the players are putting their hands up and playing at their best. In my mind, Shami has taken over Siraj’s spot because of the way he’s bowled in the last two games. He’s been incredible.”
Shane Watson
Mohammed Shami has 15 wickets in his previous four games, dating back to the pre-World Cup Australia series, including two five-wicket hauls.
His 4/22 propelled India to a stunning 100-run victory against England in their most recent match.
“He can beat any batter on the outside or the inside” – Shane Watson on Mohammed Shami
Shane Watson went on to say that facing Mohammed Shami on a roll is a nightmare because of his ability to test batters on both edges.
In his four-wicket performance, the 33-year-old picked up crucial wickets of Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow, and Moeen Ali to wreck England’s batting order.
Shami has 180 wickets in 96 ODIs with an excellent average of sub 25. However, in World Cups, he averages only 14.07 in 13 games.
“When Shami is at his best, as we saw against England, he’s just so difficult to play, Watson said. “He can beat any batter on the outside or the inside. And because his length is so accurate, it’s always hitting the stumps. He’s always in there asking questions.
“It was unfortunate that Hardik went down injured. But that meant that Shami got an opportunity, and for me he’s surpassed Siraj because of the way he’s been bowling.”
Shane Watson
Shami, having participated in just two World Cup matches for India, is already the third highest in wicket-taking, with only Kuldeep Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah leading. He’s taken nine wickets so far.
India’s team is aiming to carry on their spotless record for a seventh consecutive match. They’ll be battling against Sri Lanka in Mumbai this upcoming Thursday.