"World Cup Is a Different Dream": Mohammed Siraj Talks Exclusion, Workload and Team Environment

January 17, 2026: Mohammed Siraj was part of India’s 2024 T20 World Cup-winning team, but he has not been selected for India’s title defence at home, which will start next month in Mumbai. In the 15-man squad for the tournament, India have chosen Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, and Harshit Rana as the main fast bowlers, with all-rounder Hardik Pandya as the fourth option.

Siraj is still a regular in Test cricket, but he has been in and out of India’s ODI team and seems to have lost his place in the T20I setup. His last T20I match was during the Sri Lanka tour in 2024.

Currently, Siraj is playing in the three-match ODI series against New Zealand. He has explained his World Cup exclusion, saying it is due to workload management.

Siraj Explains Workload Management Behind World Cup Exclusion

“I was rested from the last ODI series against South Africa because I had bowled 40 overs in the second Test (vs South Africa in Guwahati)," the right-arm pacer told reporters ahead of the third ODI between India and New Zealand in Indore.

Importance of Rest for Fast Bowlers

“I haven’t been in and out. I played in Australia (ODI series) then was rested (against South Africa). For a fast bowler, adequate rest is very important. Been playing Test matches consistently and you end up working out a lot. You need to refuel to maintain the rhythm and focus," he added.

Strong Team for the T20 World Cup

Siraj feels India have picked a strong team for the T20 World Cup.

“I played the last T20 World Cup and not this time. For a player, playing in a World Cup is a different dream – playing for your country. The team is quite good on paper and in form. My best wishes to them. Keep the trophy here," he said.

India have been placed alongside Netherlands, USA, Namibia, and Pakistan in Group A of the competition that starts on February 8.

India vs New Zealand Series Update

India had taken a 1-0 lead in the three-match series against New Zealand before the tourists bounced back to level the series. The defeat should be disappointing, given India are playing with a near full-strength team (not featuring Bumrah) against a side missing several first-choice players.

“The team environment is very good. There is strong input from the seniors. Wins and losses happen, but the atmosphere in the dressing room is very healthy, especially as we prepare for bigger tournaments," Siraj said.