Mohammed Siraj delivered a sensational performance in the second Test against England at Edgbaston, claiming 6 wickets for 70 runs and etching his name in the record books. This remarkable feat helped India gain a significant 180-run lead in the first innings. While Siraj's individual brilliance was undeniable, he was quick to credit a teammate for his success.
Siraj's achievement places him among an elite group of Indian pacers who have taken five or more wickets in a Test innings at Edgbaston, joining legends like Kapil Dev, Chetan Sharma, and Ishant Sharma. His 6/70 is also the best bowling performance by an Indian at the ground since Chetan Sharma's 6/58 in 1986. Furthermore, he is the first visiting pacer to bag a six-wicket haul at Edgbaston since 1993.
After the game, Siraj expressed his elation, stating, "It's unbelievable because I was waiting for a long time. I have been bowling well but not getting wickets. I have only got four-wicket hauls here, so getting six here is very special". He also emphasized the importance of maintaining consistency and bowling in the right areas.
Leading an inexperienced pace attack in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, Siraj embraced the responsibility and said, "My aim was to not try too much and bowl in the right areas. I love responsibility and I love the challenge". He further added, "I've played 38 Tests, so my aim was to bring stability".
While Siraj's performance is a testament to his skill and determination, he acknowledged the contribution of another player to his success. Although the specific teammate he credited isn't explicitly mentioned in the provided context, the support from the other bowlers, particularly Akash Deep, who took 4 wickets, was crucial in maintaining pressure on the English batsmen. Former India pace bowler and JioStar expert noted that Siraj's numbers are drastically better when Bumrah isn't playing, suggesting he relishes the leadership role.
Siraj's fiery spell on Day 3 saw him dismiss key batsmen like Joe Root and Ben Stokes in quick succession, putting England on the back foot. Later, after a resilient partnership between Harry Brook and Jamie Smith, Siraj returned to clean up the tail, ensuring India took a commanding lead.
The cricket fraternity has lauded Mohammed Siraj for his outstanding performance, with many praising his accuracy, consistency, and big heart. His ability to lead the attack in Bumrah's absence has also been commended. With this six-wicket haul, Siraj has not only put India in a strong position in the Test but has also cemented his place as a key member of the Indian bowling attack. Siraj also joined Jasprit Bumrah as the second Indian bowler to take five or more wickets in an innings in Test matches across England, Australia, South Africa, and the West Indies.