Mohammed Siraj finds his rhythm back in Perth Test and takes five wickets. How he was able to turn things around and what’s expected of him in BGT 2024-25?
Mohammed Siraj showcased a remarkable display of skill and determination during the first Test against Australia in Perth. After shaky outings in the series against Bangladesh and New Zealand, Siraj finally found his rhythm. He displayed his bowling prowess with commendable finesse. The aggressive yet controlled approach from the Hyderabad-born kept the opposition on their toes at all times.
Earlier, the fast bowler was scrutinised after underwhelming performances and a lack of rhythm in the home Tests. However, Siraj made a fantastic return to form with a dazzling show in the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25. He claimed two wickets in the first innings and three in the second.
Impressive comeback in PerthÂ
Siraj has had his share of challenges in the last two Test series on home soil as he was lacking form. He has been facing the heat after his under-par performance against New Zealand in the first Test match in Bengaluru. The right-arm pacer picked two wickets in the first innings but remained wicketless in the second. He took two wickets in two matches against the Kiwis at an average of 58.00 and an economy rate of 3.74. Siraj underperformed in the series against Bangladesh as well. He picked only four wickets in two matches at an average of 34.50 and an economy of 3.35.
Nevertheless, Siraj picked up 5 wickets in the Perth Test at a good average of 14.20 and a healthy economy of 2.62 in a great comeback performance. His bowling figures of 2/20 and 3/51 reflected his impact on the game. An impressive economy rate and crucial breakthroughs tilted the match in his team’s favour.
Read More: AUS vs IND, 1st Test, Day 4: India beat Australia by comprehensive margin of 295 runs in Perth
Consistency and intensity has been Siraj’s keysÂ
In the Perth Test, Siraj presented exceptional seam movement and accuracy in his bowling. He consistently troubled the Australia batters with his tight line and length. Consistency in bowling the right areas helped him the most. Over the years, he has drastically enhanced his technicality and consistency.
In the first innings, Siraj claimed the crucial wickets of Marnus Labuschagne and Mitchell Marsh. He delivered a wonderful full-length ball onto Labuschagne’s pads, getting him LBW as he attempted a shot to the leg side. By consistently building pressure on the opposing batters with his disciplined bowling, Siraj forced them into errors and restricted their scoring opportunities.
Whereas, his clinical three-wicket haul in the second innings triggered Australia’s batting collapse. He picked up two key wickets of Usman Khawaja and Steven Smith on Day 4. Siraj got a back of a length delivery to shoot up as Khawaja top-edged a pull to wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant.
He bowled another absolute peach to get rid of Australia’s talismanic batter, Smith. Siraj bowled a good-length delivery around the off stump. The pacer angled the ball into the right-hander, but it swung slightly away after pitching. His excellent line and length induced a false defensive shot off Smith’s bat. He also bowled brilliantly to Travis Head in the initial overs. The pacer was very accurate with his line and length, especially in the second innings. He demonstrated excellent consistency and intensity with the ball.
Siraj exhibited mastery of various bowling techniques, utilising seam movement, pace variations, and impeccable control to outfox the Aussie batters. His pinpoint accuracy and stability in bowling the right lengths posed a constant challenge for the batters. He maintained the pressure by continuously striking the appropriate spots, which made them make mistakes. His lively on-field demeanour and positive body language are additional key factors behind his improved performance.
Read More: BGT 2024-25: Bumrah bowled with brilliance & captained with craft in Perth
Siraj has his task cut out for remainder of BGT
Mohammed Siraj has been India’s second frontline pacer since Mohammed Shami’s injury. If he stood up in Shami’s absence, that augurs extremely well for India. He has a lengthy series ahead of him. In order to excel in the remaining four Test matches, he must continue to play with great intensity.
The team has 9-10 days left before the second test, so the pacer will have ample time to recuperate and present himself in the best light. To keep up his momentum, he simply needs to practice his basics and maintain his fitness. In the upcoming matches, it is expected that Siraj will continue to build on his current form and play a pivotal role in the team’s bowling unit.
Read More: Siraj not creating enough wicket-taking opportunities at home
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