India will face West Indies in the second ODI of the three-match series at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on September 30. After winning the opening match, the hosts will look to take an unassailable lead, but the conditions at the venue could force them to rethink their combination. India handed an ODI debut to Naman Dhir in the series opener, with the all-rounder included to provide additional batting depth.
He bowled five overs for 33 runs without taking a wicket, while India comfortably chased down the target with eight wickets in hand. With Axar Patel and Washington Sundar unavailable, India opted for Dhir alongside Nitish Kumar Reddy and Ravindra Jadeja. However, Chopra feels the conditions in Guwahati could make the part-time bowling option less effective, particularly if dew becomes a factor under lights.
Aakash Chopra wants India to strengthen their bowling attack
Chopra has suggested that India should consider replacing Naman with Mohammed Siraj for the second ODI. His reasoning is primarily based on the expected dew, which could make it difficult for a part-time bowler to grip the ball during the second innings. The former India batter acknowledged Dhir’s ability with the bat but pointed out that his bowling remains a secondary skill. He believes India would benefit from having a full-fledged bowling option even if it means sacrificing 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.
Chopra also noted that Dhir is not currently being considered as a serious option for the 2027 ODI World Cup, making the immediate need for greater bowling strength more important.
Also READ: Mohammad Kaif praises Virat Kohli’s hunger and dedication after record-breaking ODI knock
Experienced pacer could return to ODI cricket after long absence
Siraj last played an ODI for India in January 2026 against New Zealand. He was subsequently expected to feature in the ODI series in England but was withdrawn as part of India’s workload management plans. The pacer has featured in only six of India’s 25 ODIs since the start of 2025. He was also left out of India’s Champions Trophy squad as the team placed greater emphasis on spin options, and his international workload has increasingly shifted towards Test cricket.
India have called Siraj into the West Indies series squad with Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh unavailable due to their Asian Games 2026 commitments. His return could therefore provide the team with an experienced pace option if they decide to alter their combination.
