Here’s how Mohammed Siraj responded when Dinesh Karthik pointed out that he has consistently stepped up in Jasprit Bumrah’s absence.
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Siraj Thrives Under Pressure in Bumrah’s Absence
Mohammed Siraj’s on-field aggression often sparks debate on social media, but his unwavering passion for the game is undeniable. Whether it’s the first session or the final hour, Siraj bowls with relentless energy—his pace never dips, and his commitment never wavers. He gives everything for his team, and it’s that very spirit that shone through once again during the final innings of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
With England off to a solid start through Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett’s 50-run opening stand, India needed a breakthrough—and Siraj delivered. On the last ball of Day 3, he bowled a searing yorker to rattle Crawley’s stumps, giving India a crucial upper hand heading into Day 4.
Interestingly, Siraj’s standout performances in this series have come in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah. With Bumrah rested due to workload management, Siraj stepped up—claiming six wickets in the first innings of the second Test and four more in the Oval’s first innings.
Before play began on Day 3, Dinesh Karthik raised the topic during an interview on Sky Cricket. He noted Siraj’s improved numbers when Bumrah isn’t in the XI and asked if it was the extra responsibility or better opportunities that fueled his success.
Siraj responded with trademark humility:
“I think I love responsibility. I am missing Jassi bhai because he is a senior bowler. You always feel good when you are given the extra responsibility. I like it and I enjoy it. I don’t take much pressure. I just like to follow my simple plans.”
It’s this hunger to lead and perform under pressure that continues to define Siraj’s rise in Indian Test cricket.
England needs 324 more runs for the win
England ended Day 3 at 50/1, needing 324 more runs to win the fifth Test and seal the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 3-1. Ben Duckett will resume on Day 4 alongside Ollie Pope, with both teams locked in a high-stakes battle across the final two days.
Having won the toss and opted to bowl first, England had early control, but India’s second-innings batting masterclass flipped the momentum. With the series on the line, India are now in a strong position to level it 2-2 and deny England a series victory at home.