Mohammed Siraj likely to miss the fourth Test against Australia, veteran Indian pacer set to make his return

Mohammed Siraj: (Image Source: Twitter)

India's senior pacer Mohammad Shami is expected to return to the playing XI for the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy starting March 9 in Ahmedabad against Australia. Considering the workload, the Indian management have allowed Shami to rest for the third Test in Indore. Instead, Umesh Yadav was chosen as the second pacer after Mohammad Siraj.

After losing the first two Tests, Australia bounced back and secured an emphatic 9-wicket victory over India in the third Test. India were expected to whitewash the series and seal their spot in the World Test Championship final. But defying all expectations, the Aussie spinners tore through the Indian batting line-up and comfortably chased down the target of 76 runs on Day 3.

India currently lead the four-match Test series 2-1 but need to win the final Test to qualify for the WTC finals at London's Oval in June. If Rohit Sharma's side lose or the match ends in a tie or draw, they will have to rely on the result of Sri Lanka's away series against New Zealand. Steve Smith-led Australia, meanwhile, will look to continue their dominance in the fourth Test and level the series 2-2.

India hopes Shami will shine in Ahmedabad

With the two teams set to lock horns in the final Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Motera, the hosts will need the services of their star pacer Shami as the surface may favor reverse swing. The right-arm pacer, who took seven wickets in 30 odd overs, has been the best pacer in the series so far for either team.

The team management has taken a decision in consultation with the medical staff to space out the pace bowlers who are a part of the ODI World Cup squad and will play Indian T20 League regularly. Hence, Shami, who had played the first two Tests was rested and might return for the Ahmedabad Test. He is also a part of India's ODI squad against Australia. At the same time, Siraj is likely to get some time off during the final Test.