Mohammed Siraj delivered a standout performance in the second Test against England at Edgbaston, claiming six wickets and stepping up in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah. His fiery spell helped India bowl out England for 407, securing a 180-run lead.
Siraj dismissed key batters including Joe Root and Ben Stokes early on Day 3, then cleaned up the tail in the final session by removing Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, and Shoaib Bashir. Speaking to JioHotstar after stumps, Siraj expressed satisfaction in leading the pace attack, especially as less-experienced bowlers like Akash Deep and Prasidh Krishna supported him. “I’ve played 38 Tests, so my aim was to stay consistent and build pressure,” he said.
Siraj described the six-wicket haul as a long-awaited achievement. “I’ve been waiting for a five-wicket haul for over a year. I often got stuck at four. Doing it in England makes it even more special,” he added.
He emphasized the importance of patience on a slowing pitch and credited his experience for knowing when to stay disciplined. “Once runs start leaking, it’s difficult to control. So I kept bowling at one spot.”
India ended Day 3 at 64/1 in the second innings, extending their lead to 244. Siraj said the plan is to post as many runs as possible, knowing England’s aggressive style. “Their mindset is attacking, so more runs will help our bowlers. We want to push the game far beyond their reach.”
He concluded by saying he thrives under responsibility. “I love a challenge. I’ve faced many in life and I embrace responsibility. It brings out the best in me.”
