Siraj featured in all 17 matches for Gujarat Titans, including the final on May 31, as the franchise finished runners-up after a five-wicket defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Ahmedabad. The heavy workload has prompted the Indian team management to consider resting the pacer ahead of the red-ball fixture.
According to reports, a final decision on Siraj’s availability is expected within the next 48 hours, with the medical team closely monitoring the fast bowler after he joined the squad in Chandigarh. His participation will depend on assessments carried out in the coming days.
If Siraj is ruled out, selectors are likely to turn to domestic standout Auqib Nabi as a potential replacement option. In that scenario, young pacer Gurnoor Brar could also be in line for a possible Test debut.
A source told TOI, “Siraj has had a long season and if he is rested, there is a bright possibility Gurnoor will play and Nabi will come into the squad.”
Nabi has impressed in domestic cricket, taking 60 wickets in the Ranji Trophy season and playing a key role for Jammu & Kashmir. He is currently part of the Indian setup as one of the net bowlers helping prepare for the Afghanistan Test, alongside Gurjapneet Singh, Prince Yadav, Saransh Jain, Zeeshan Ansari, and Shivang Kumar.
The Afghanistan Test will be followed by a three-match ODI series across Dharamsala, Lucknow, and Chennai as India’s packed home season continues.
