WTC 2023: Top 5 players who can make big impact in WTC final

The countdown has started for the World Test Championship final. Australia and India are all set for the face-off at The Oval, England. Australia have qualified for the final for the first time, whereas the Indian team has made two in two. Last time, New Zealand defeated India to get their hands on the Test mace. So this time, India will be more aware of the match situation. 

For Australia, they could have been in the finals last time but it was just not meant to be. This time, they have advanced to the finals and assembled a strong squad. Although they will be missing Josh Hazelwood who got ruled out, but they're still favorites. For India, they will be missing big names like Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah, and Shreyas Iyer. Nevertheless, they have players who can put their heart and soul into it.

After a long time in Test cricket's history, The Oval will host a Test match in June and the Dukes ball will be used, so a neutral ball at a neutral venue will decide the result. Regardless of these, few players could play an impact role in deciding the fate of the match. Let's take a look at them:- 

5. Mohammed Siraj

In the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, India's bowling centers around Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami. Mohammed Siraj is now a much-improved bowler. For the last few years, he's been bowling like a dream. Regardless of the format, he's making the batters dance to his bowling tune.

Siraj is rated highly as a red ball bowler and it has been the case since his playing days in India's domestic circuit. Former India bowling coach Bharat Arun has also spoken very highly of him in the past. Since his Test debut against Australia, Siraj had a terrific time bowling in English conditions.

He has claimed 18 wickets in 5 matches in England thus far which suggests his remarkable capabilities. With an athletic run-up, Siraj gets the ball to nip back into the right-handers. 

Siraj has become Rohit's go-to man whenever he thinks pressure needs to be maintained. He can keep bowling on the same line and length relentlessly. The only worrying factor for Siraj could be his 'not so good' last Test at The Oval and now he has a chance not only to better his stats but also to win the coveted Test mace for the Indian team.