Mohammed Siraj is set to join the Indian cricket team ahead of the second ODI against New Zealand, providing a significant boost to India’s fast-bowling department. The experienced pacer is expected to link
up with the squad in Wellington as India prepare for the second match of their five-match ODI series on November 7.
Siraj was unavailable for the opening ODI in Auckland on November 4 as he was involved with India A in their four-day assignment against New Zealand A. His inclusion in the India A squad was part of the team’s preparations for the upcoming two-match Test series against New Zealand, which begins on November 19.
GOOD NEWS FOR INDIA 🇮🇳
– Mohammed Siraj has joined Team India for the 2nd ODI against New Zealand. https://t.co/Hn1BW4eRwM
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) November 6, 2026
Mohammed Siraj’s return strengthens India’s bowling options
The right-arm fast bowler was initially named in India’s ODI squad for the New Zealand tour. However, following Prasidh Krishna’s injury-related withdrawal from the ODI series, Siraj was required to feature for India A in the second four-day match against New Zealand A, beginning October 31.
According to reports, Siraj will now join the senior team in Wellington ahead of the second ODI. His arrival gives captain Shubman Gill and the team management another experienced pace-bowling option as India look to maintain their momentum in the series.
Siraj has established himself as one of India’s dependable fast bowlers across formats. His ability to generate movement with the new ball, maintain pressure during the middle overs and deliver effective spells at the death makes him a valuable addition to the bowling attack.
India prepare for second ODI in Wellington
India will face New Zealand in the second ODI on November 7 in Wellington. The visitors will be looking to build on their performance in the series opener and strengthen their position in the five-match contest.
However, Siraj’s availability does not necessarily guarantee an immediate place in the playing XI. The team management will have to assess the conditions, workload and performances of the bowlers who featured in the opening encounter before finalising the combination.
