Chopra Urges India to Bolster Bowling Attack for Guwahati ODI Against West Indies

India take on West Indies in the second ODI of the three-match series at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on September 30. Having secured victory in the opener, the hosts will aim to seal the series, though local conditions may prompt a tactical rethink. India handed an ODI debut to all-rounder Naman Dhir in the first match to provide additional batting depth.

Dhir bowled five overs for 33 runs without claiming a wicket, while India chased down the target comfortably with eight wickets in hand. With Axar Patel and Washington Sundar unavailable, the side fielded Dhir alongside Nitish Kumar Reddy and Ravindra Jadeja. However, Chopra believes the conditions in Guwahati—particularly the prospect of dew under lights—could render a part-time bowling option less effective.

Chopra Advocates for a Specialist Bowler

Chopra has suggested that India consider replacing Dhir with Mohammed Siraj for the second ODI. His rationale centers on the expected dew, which could make it difficult for a part-time bowler to grip the ball during the second innings. While acknowledging Dhir’s batting ability, the former India opener pointed out that his bowling remains a secondary skill. Chopra argues that the team would benefit from a full-fledged bowling option, even at the cost of some batting depth.

“Since you are going to a place where the toss is not in your hands, and there might be dew, why not play Mohammed Siraj?” Chopra said on his YouTube channel.

He also noted that Dhir is not currently viewed as a serious contender for the 2027 ODI World Cup, making the immediate requirement for greater bowling potency the priority.

Experienced Pacer Set for Potential ODI Return

Siraj last featured in an ODI for India in January 2026 against New Zealand. He was subsequently expected to play in the ODI series in England but was withdrawn as part of workload management protocols. The pacer has appeared in only six of India’s 25 ODIs since the start of 2025 and was omitted from the Champions Trophy squad as the team prioritized spin options, with his international workload increasingly focused on Test cricket.

India have recalled Siraj to the West Indies series squad with Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh unavailable due to their Asian Games 2026 commitments. His inclusion could therefore provide the side with an experienced pace option should they decide to alter their combination.

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