Mohammed Siraj has emerged as the leading wicket-taker in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. Reflecting on his stellar performance, India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel praised Siraj’s relentless attitude and match-winning impact, calling him a natural leader who consistently puts the team first.
Mohammed Siraj Steps Up as India’s Relentless Warrior in Bumrah’s Absence
Mohammed Siraj has emerged as a tireless workhorse for India in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against England. One of only two players to feature in all five Tests, Siraj has shouldered the burden of the pace attack in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah. So far, he has claimed 20 wickets in the series and played a crucial role during Day 4 of the Oval Test, where he relentlessly bowled probing lines even as Harry Brook and Joe Root counterattacked. His persistence helped create pressure, ultimately leading to wickets at the other end for Prasidh Krishna.
India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel revealed that Mohammed Siraj was given the option to rest before the Oval Test, but the 31-year-old insisted on playing. Despite bowling over 180 overs in the series and feeling the physical toll, Siraj remained determined to lead from the front.
“I said it earlier in the Test series, I’m very happy for Mohammed Siraj that he’s getting the recognition. He’s a guy in that changing room who will lead the way; he’s a natural leader,” Morkel said. “Although vocally he doesn’t speak a lot, I think he leads a lot with his actions. Even if it was bowling an extra two to three overs or creating an opportunity for us, he’s been that guy.”
Siraj has put in the effort
Mohammed Siraj has once again proven his value to Team India, returning figures of 4 wickets in the first innings and striking twice in the second innings of the Oval Test, removing key batters Zak Crawley and Ollie Pope. His fiery spells have been instrumental in keeping India in the contest as the match heads into a nail-biting final day, with England needing just 35 more runs and India requiring four wickets.
Bowling coach Morne Morkel lauded Siraj’s relentless commitment and timely breakthroughs. “He’s put in the effort, and it’s just nice to see the rewards… stepping up, getting the support behind the team to lift us in the crucial moments,” Morkel said. “It’s those sort of smart plays that you need, and for me, Siraj has just been outstanding.”
With the team management aware that Jasprit Bumrah would play only three Tests in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, Siraj took it upon himself to shoulder the burden. Notably, he had also played every match in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy earlier.
“He just enjoys that opportunity when it’s given to him,” Morkel added. “He said it yesterday — he loves playing for India, putting on the shirt, and performing. That’s what you want from a fast bowler in a five-Test series — someone who always wants the ball, who always wants to do it for the team.”
Even before the Oval Test, the management checked in on Siraj’s physical and mental state, given his heavy workload of over 180 overs. But the pacer was unwavering in his response: “I want to play this Test match, I want to win it for the team.” Morkel summed it up best: “It’s not just about his bowling — it’s the attitude. When you have a guy willing to run in all day, it’s no surprise he’s delivering these numbers.”