Mohammed Siraj delivered a stellar performance to remember on Day 3 of the second Test at Edgbaston, stepping up in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah with a sensational 6-wicket haul that helped India secure a commanding 180-run lead. Despite a mammoth 303-run stand between Harry Brook and Jamie Smith, Siraj remained relentless, showcasing both heart and skill to bring India back into the game.
“I love challenge”—Siraj relishes leadership role
Siraj struck early in the day, removing Joe Root and Ben Stokes in successive deliveries to rattle England at 84/5. While Brook and Smith counterattacked quite belligerently, Siraj’s consistency paid off again with the second new ball, as he dismantled the tail to finish with 6/70—his best figures in England.
Speaking to JioHotstar after the day’s play, Siraj embraced the challenge of leading India’s pace attack without Bumrah. “It’s Akash Deep’s third or fourth match, same for Prasidh, so I was just focused on staying consistent and building pressure,” he said. “I love responsibility, I love the challenge.”
Siraj also revealed how he had been bowling well over the past year without much reward. “It’s unbelievable because I was waiting for a long time. I have been bowling well but not getting wickets. I have only got four-wicket hauls here, so getting six here is very special.” He admitted the temptation to try different things but emphasized his focus on staying consistent on a slow, unresponsive surface.
Statistically, Siraj’s strike rate and average improve significantly when Bumrah and Shami aren’t around. The weird bit is that Siraj averages more when playing with Bumrah (34) in Test cricket than without him (26). On a flat pitch with no real seam movement, Siraj was tireless.
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