In a continuation of their World Cup tradition, Team India recently celebrated the Impact Fielder of the T20I Series post their thrilling encounter against South Africa. Mohammed Siraj emerged as the deserving recipient of this prestigious award, showcasing his exceptional fielding skills in series.
The tradition of honoring the best fielder after every game has become a beloved ritual in the Indian cricket community, especially since the 2023 World Cup. Initiated by India’s fielding coach, T Dilip, the ceremony takes place in the dressing room, offering a comprehensive review of the team’s fielding performance.
T Dilip highlights specific acts of brilliance before announcing the best fielder for the game in a unique and innovative manner, complete with the winner receiving a medal.
As the World Cup unfolded, the award announcements became increasingly creative, fostering healthy competition within the Indian team. Players eagerly strive to showcase their best on the field, aiming to claim the coveted dressing room medal for the best fielder. The enthusiasm currently is also palpable, evident in players celebrating catches and gesturing toward the fielding coach in hopes of winning the prestigious accolade.
After Mohammed Siraj won the recent best fielder medal award. He said: “Kabse Inteezar tha mujhe iss medal ka, World Cup se (I was waiting for so long for this medal since World Cup).”
“I have recieved it today, the lesson for this is… Never Give up,” Mohammed Siraj added.
IND vs SA T20 Series: Mohammed Siraj wins best fielder medal
The third match of the thrilling 3-match T20 series between South Africa and India unfolded at Johannesburg’s Wanderers Stadium on December 14. The Indian team delivered an outstanding performance, setting a formidable target of 202 runs and restricting South Africa to 95 runs, securing victory by a resounding 106 runs. The match ended in a 1-1 draw for the series.
During this pivotal match, fast bowler Mohammed Siraj not only dazzled with his exceptional bowling but also left an indelible mark with his outstanding fielding.
A key moment came in the fourth over of South Africa’s innings when Reeza Hendricks attempted a clever single by playing a shot at mid-on. Mohammed Siraj’s lightning-quick agility allowed him to tour the ball, making a direct throw at the non-striker’s end, resulting in Reeza being run out with just 8 runs to his name.
In addition to his fielding prowess, Siraj’s bowling performance in the third T20 was remarkable. Though he did not claim a wicket, his economical spell of 3 overs, conceding just 13 runs, exerted significant pressure on the South African batsmen, contributing to India’s triumphant display on the field.
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