“You will have to play him”– Aakash Chopra prefers Mohammed Siraj over Shardul Thakur, Prasidh Krishna for World Cup 2023.

Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has expressed his support for pacer Mohammed Siraj over Shardul Thakur and Prasidh Krishna, endorsing his inclusion in India’s squad for the 2023 ODI World Cup. All three, namely Siraj, Shardul, and Prasidh, are part of the 17-player lineup set to compete in the upcoming Asia Cup in Sri Lanka, scheduled to commence on August 30.

As anticipation builds for the ODI World Cup, Chopra, who has transitioned into broadcasting, emphasized the significance of backing Mohammed Siraj due to his strong performance metrics in Asian playing conditions.The composition of the World Cup squad will be determined post the culmination of the Asia Cup.

Aakash Chopra said “Mohammed Siraj is brilliant. He has had a short career. 43 wickets in 24 matches at an average of 20.7 and an economy rate of 4.78. They are better than both Bumrah’s and Shami’s numbers. In Asia, his average becomes 16.57 and economy rate is 4.51.”

He more added “His numbers in Asia are better than his numbers outside Asia. So, people who were talking about whether Shardul Thakur or Prasidh Krishna can be played instead of Siraj, you cannot play anyone. You will have to play Siraj only. You should play him.”

It remains to be seen whether the trio of fast bowlers secures their positions or if alterations are made. The Asia Cup holds the dual role of serving as a rehearsal for the imminent ICC mega event and providing the aforementioned pacers with a platform to solidify their berths in the World Cup squad.