It’s becoming more difficult to recall that Mohammed Siraj has only played seven Tests for his country. Siraj is progressing from a brilliant bowler to one of India’s stalwarts with each game. Given India’s depth in the speed bowling department, this is no small achievement.
Many people have been calling for Siraj to be included in India’s XI for the ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand. Understandably, India chose the more experienced bowling combination. The outcome was not in India’s favor, and they appear to have made up their minds on one thing: they will play Siraj in the Test series against England regardless of the outcome. It’s simple to see why after two tests. He took three wickets in the first Test and eight in the second to help India win convincingly at Lord’s. Every time he runs in, he runs with purpose and 100% effort. And a devotion only rivaled by his commander. The zeal has even resulted in some squandered evaluations and borderline “sent offs.” The finger-on-lip salute is quickly becoming his signature. He even has a narrative to go along with it.
IPL Helped Siraj grow even more
Regardless of his IPL returns, Siraj’s talent in the longer forms should have been undeniable. All it takes is one glance at his first-class track record. 181 wickets in 83 matches, with an average of 23. Siraj was a regular for India A as well as a key pacer for Hyderabad. It was no surprise that he was chosen for the Australia tour. Those who were shocked by his selection were unlikely to be aware of his first-class accomplishments. Bowling instructor Bharath Arun, on the other hand, was well aware of his talent. When Siraj climbed through the ranks, Arun was also the coach of Hyderabad.
Between the two IPLs, Siraj began his international career with a historic triumph against Australia in Melbourne. He took 13 wickets in three Tests, including a five-for. Siraj was instrumental in India’s wins in Melbourne and Brisbane, which will be remembered for a long time. The fact that he accomplished all of this while remaining in Australia despite the fact that he had lost his father back home was as amazing as the accomplishments themselves. Siraj’s father, an autorickshaw driver in Hyderabad, has played a significant role in his professional career.
