Ishant Sharma struggles in first session, fans furious at Mohammed Siraj's exclusion

Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj came up with a lion-hearted performance in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. The pacer's performance, especially in the Test series decider at the Gabba, was lauded by many as he led an inexperienced bowling attack in an exemplary fashion. With 13 wickets in 3 matches, the youngster emerged as the leading wicket-taker for Team India in the series. However, a returning Ishant Sharma was given the nod ahead of the youngster for the India vs England 1st Test match. 

India vs England live: Netizens question Mohammed Siraj's exclusion 

India's tour of Australia proved to be an injury-ravaged affair as several prominent fast bowlers were on the sidelines. Ishant Sharma, who has been a mainstay for the team's red-ball assignment, had to miss the flight Down Under because of an abdominal muscle tear that he picked up while playing the 13th edition of the Indian Premier League in the UAE. The lanky pacer has recovered from his injury after an extensive rehabilitation programme and was ultimately included in the Test squad for the England series. 

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The India vs England 1st Test is India's first home game after their COVID-19 break, and the team management decided to take the field with only two fast bowlers. Ishant Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah were Virat Kohli's preferred choice over the in-form Mohammed Siraj. While Sharma's struggles in the opening session of the day were quite visible, fans were certainly not pleased with Siraj missing out on the crucial contest. 

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India vs England live updates

The two cricketing giants will battle it out in four Test matches. The series is of utmost importance for both the participating teams, as the result could have a significant impact on the ICC World Test Championship standings. Joe Root won the toss at the MA Chidambaram Stadium and decided to bat first. England's opening batsmen gave them a steady start in the first session. However, India fought back by claiming two quick wickets. At the time of writing this report, England have 81 runs on the board but have also lost two wickets. 

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Mohammed Siraj career stats in international cricket

The talented bowler made his Test debut in Australia, where he came up with a spirited performance in spite of the immense pressure. Having played three Test matches so far, Siraj has 13 wickets to his name. He also has three wickets in as many T20Is. The fast bowler has also played a single ODI for team India. However, he went wicketless in the particular encounter.   

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