Ravichandran Ashwin has called for India’s team management, including head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shubman Gill, to protect and nurture Mohammed Siraj, whom he believes could soon become the No.1 Test bowler in the world. Siraj was the star in India’s thrilling six-run win against England at The Oval, where he claimed nine wickets, including a five-wicket haul in the second innings.
Ashwin, speaking on his YouTube channel, emphasized how Siraj has often gone underappreciated. He pointed out that Siraj’s consistent performances, work ethic, and ability to deliver in crunch moments make him a champion bowler. Siraj ended the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy with 23 wickets, becoming the highest wicket-taker of the series.
India Must Build the Bowling Attack Around Siraj
Ashwin noted that with Jasprit Bumrah absent, Siraj stepped up and led the pace attack with exceptional discipline. He bowled a total of 187 overs in the series — the most by any bowler — and played a crucial role in turning games in India’s favor.
He added that the team must now start managing Siraj’s workload by resting him in less critical matches and planning a long-term bowling unit around his experience. Ashwin named Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, and Arshdeep Singh as promising options to support Siraj in the future.
Despite setbacks like dropping a key catch and being at the center of some tense moments, Siraj delivered under pressure. His final-day spell, where he took three of the last four wickets, sealed the dramatic win for India.
Ashwin concluded that Siraj’s never-give-up attitude makes him a rare gem. He believes cricketing gods have finally rewarded Siraj, calling him a once-in-a-generation cricketer and a true match-winner for India.
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