Mohammed Siraj's exclusion from India's ODI squad has raised eyebrows, especially after the team's recent struggles against South Africa. In the second ODI in Raipur, India failed to defend a total of 358 runs, with bowlers Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana conceding runs at an alarming rate. Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra expressed his confusion over Siraj's absence, questioning how a player who was once a key part of the ODI setup has become a one-format player.

Siraj, who was the world's top-ranked ODI bowler before the World Cup final, has only played six ODIs since that match. His impressive record includes 73 wickets in 47 ODIs at an average of 24.67. Despite his success, he was not included in the squad for the ICC Champions Trophy and is currently playing in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy for Hyderabad.

Chopra highlighted the inconsistency in India's selection, noting that while Siraj has been sidelined, other bowlers like Krishna and Rana have been given opportunities despite their poor performances. "I cannot wrap my head around the fact that he has become a one-format player. When he plays, we all praise his passion and commitment. How has he vanished from ODI cricket?" Chopra questioned in a video.

The Indian team is currently tied 1-1 in the three-match ODI series against South Africa, and the absence of Siraj, along with Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, has been felt. As India prepares for future challenges, the management's decision regarding Siraj's role in limited-overs cricket remains a topic of debate among fans and analysts alike.

Chopra concluded by stating, "Suddenly, his name has disappeared. Why did this happen? Personally, I don't know. When did he become a single-format player?" The ongoing discussions reflect the uncertainty surrounding Siraj's future in the ODI format as India looks to strengthen its bowling lineup.